Social Worker I, II or III- Adult Services

McDowell County • Department of Social Services, NC

14d • Hybrid

About The Position

Performs professional social work in the Adult Services Unit involving assessment, intervention, case management, protective services, and coordination of services for vulnerable adults. Responsibilities include providing Adult Protective Services (APS), guardianship and related services, in-home services, adult care home placement coordination, and other programs designed to promote the safety, independence, and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities. Employees exercise considerable independent judgment while adhering to federal, state, county, and agency policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with one of the following: Bachelor's degree in Social Work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education; or Bachelor's degree in a human services field from an accredited institution and one year of directly related experience; or Master's degree in Social Work; or An equivalent combination of education and experience that meets North Carolina Office of State Human Resources qualifications for Adult Services Social Worker.
• Valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Acceptable driving record.
• Ability to travel throughout McDowell County.
• Availability to respond to emergency situations as needed.
• Successful completion of criminal background check, reference checks, and any other pre-employment requirements established by McDowell County.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in Adult Protective Services.
• Experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities.
• Knowledge of North Carolina Adult Services policies.
• Experience in crisis intervention and case management.
• Experience working with electronic case management systems.

Responsibilities

• Receive, screen, and investigate reports of alleged abuse, neglect, exploitation, and self-neglect involving disabled adults.
• Conduct timely home visits and face-to-face assessments.
• Assess risk and determine the need for protective intervention.
• Develop and implement protective service plans.
• Coordinate emergency interventions when necessary.
• Maintain detailed case documentation in accordance with state policy.
• Prepare court reports and testify in judicial proceedings as required.
• Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments.
• Develop individualized service plans.
• Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health professionals, community agencies, caregivers, and family members.
• Monitor client progress and modify service plans as appropriate.
• Assist clients in accessing available community resources and public benefits.
• Provide case management for adults under county guardianship.
• Coordinate medical care, housing, financial resources, and supportive services.
• Maintain regular contact with wards to ensure health and safety.
• Prepare reports required by the Clerk of Superior Court and other regulatory agencies.
• Work collaboratively with guardians of the estate, attorneys, healthcare providers, and family members.
• Determine eligibility for adult services programs.
• Coordinate in-home aide services and other supportive programs.
• Arrange alternative living placements when necessary.
• Assist clients in maintaining the highest level of independence possible.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and timely electronic case records.
• Ensure compliance with state performance standards and federal regulations.
• Prepare statistical reports and documentation required by state and county agencies.
• Protect confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws.
• Work cooperatively with: Healthcare providers, Law enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, Courts, Clerk of Superior Court, District Attorney, Mental health providers, Long-term care facilities, Community organizations, Family members and caregivers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Serve as an advocate for vulnerable adults.

Benefits

• McDowell County is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the County to recruit, hire, train and promote individuals without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, political affiliation or national origin. The County will interactively work with disabled applicants and employees to identify reasonable accommodations that will allow the individual to perform essential job functions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level