Social Worker (Independent Contractor)

State of North Carolina

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of the Parent Defender (OPD) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Interdisciplinary Parent Representation Program (IPRP) Contract Social Worker. OPD, a state-wide office within Indigent Defense Services, was established to support attorneys representing parents in abuse, neglect, and dependency (A/N/D) cases. The IRP aims to enhance parent representation, reduce time in foster care, and achieve permanency more quickly. Contract social workers will collaborate with parent attorneys as part of a legal team, assisting parents in understanding the child welfare process, promoting engagement, and connecting them with services tailored to their individual needs. These are contract positions, and contractors are not employees of the State of North Carolina.

Requirements

Master’s degree (MSW) from social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and one (1) year of social work experience, OR Bachelor’s degree (BSW) from social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and two (2) years of social work or counseling experience, OR Bachelor’s degree in human services field or related curriculum and three (3) years social work or counseling experience
Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and access to a working vehicle
A smart phone and laptop
Professional liability insurance

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the North Carolina child welfare system, including policy, practice, and agency operations
Clinical understanding of mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence, and family systems
Excellent advocacy, communication, and clinical skills
Commitment to social justice
Demonstrated ability to work on a multidisciplinary team
Self-directed organizational and time management skills
Ability to establish collaborative working relationships with a variety of stakeholders
Ability to travel

Responsibilities

Communicate with the attorney on an ongoing basis
Facilitate and encourage parent engagement in their case
Communicate with parent’s support system
Help find court-ordered services and other resources
Advocate for and support parents at meetings
Prepare parent for successful visitation/family time
Collaborate with community and state agencies to help parents achieve their goals
Perform other duties as requested by the attorney
Submit timely and accurate monthly billing and data reports to OPD
Attend meetings and trainings required by the IRP Program Manager