Social Worker 1, 2, Or 3

State of Louisiana • St. Gabriel, LA

21h • Onsite

About The Position

At the Louisiana Department of Corrections, our mission is to promote public safety and strengthen communities through fair, professional, and responsive corrections services. We are committed to protecting the people of Louisiana with integrity, accountability, and a deep respect for the rights and dignity of all. This is an opportunity to become part of a dedicated team supporting public safety, working in a correctional facility where professionalism, resilience, and teamwork are essential. The Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker to join our multidisciplinary team. This role plays a vital part in supporting the rehabilitation, well-being, and successful reentry of the women in our care. We are looking for a professional who is committed to trauma-informed practice, empowerment, and meaningful change within a correctional environment.

Requirements

• Possession of a current Louisiana license to practice as a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Certified Social Worker (CSW)
• A master's degree in social work.
• NOTE: Permanent status will not be granted in this job title without LMSW or LCSW licensure in Louisiana; Certified Social Worker (CSW) credential will not be accepted for granting permanent status.

Responsibilities

• Provide Individual and Group Therapy: Deliver evidence-based therapeutic services to incarcerated women, addressing trauma, mental health needs, substance use, family dynamics, and reentry challenges. Facilitate structured group sessions that promote emotional regulation, resilience, and pro-social behavior.
• Develop Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Conduct biopsychosocial assessments and create individualized treatment plans that outline goals, interventions, and measurable outcomes. Collaborate with mental health staff, security personnel, medical providers, and program coordinators to ensure continuity of care.
• Evaluate New Commitments and Assess Needs: Complete intake evaluations for newly admitted individuals, identifying immediate risks, mental health concerns, and service needs. Make initial determinations regarding placement, programming, crisis intervention, and referrals to specialized services.
• Provide Crisis Intervention and Support: Respond to acute mental health crises, conduct suicide risk assessments, and implement safety plans in coordination with clinical and security teams.
• Maintain Accurate Documentation and Case Records: Prepare timely, thorough clinical notes, assessments, progress updates, and reports in accordance with departmental policy, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate Reentry and Discharge Planning: Assist individuals in preparing for release by connecting them with community resources, treatment providers, housing options, and support networks to promote successful reintegration.
• Participate in Multidisciplinary Team Meetings: Collaborate with psychologists, medical staff, correctional officers, and program administrators to review cases, adjust treatment plans, and ensure a holistic approach to care.
• Facilitate Access to Supportive Services: Provide referrals and advocacy for educational programs, vocational training, substance use treatment, and family reunification services.

Benefits

• A defined benefit pension plan
• Health insurance that is also available post retirement
• At least 10 paid holidays
• Sick and annual leave that rolls over from year to year
• Paid or time off accrued for hours worked over 40 per week
• A deferred compensation plan
• A flexible benefits plan
• Alternate work schedules (e.g., 4/10s may be available upon meeting policy requirements)

What This Job Offers

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