Family Services Specialist II

Family Services Specialist II

A Family Services Specialist II represents the full performance level. Employees are responsible for developing and implementing individualized service plans involving the application of casework methods and basic service level caseloads of Child Protective Services, and Foster Care/Adoptions. Employees perform all tasks independently and only seek supervisory advice on unusual situations or when policies and procedures require supervisory review or involvement.

General work tasks include, but not limited to:

• Interpret laws, policies, and regulations as applied to the specific area of responsibility.
• Monitor, coordinate, and administer specific programs as assigned.
• Coordinate services within the specific area of responsibility.
• Interview and assess customer needs and other relevant factors such as education/skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
• Inform clients of related service programs rules/regulations and the right to participate.
• Present cases to determine appropriate services and write/implement service plans.
• Provide case management services to monitor compliance.
• Manage program waiting list.
• Track expenditures, prepare/submit budget estimates, and ensure payment for services.
• Complete necessary federal, state, and local planning and reporting requirements.
• Conduct overall monitoring of programs in the specific area of responsibility.
• Serve as a resource to clients and the community in the area of expertise.
• Provide after hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care.

Some/working knowledge of:

• Social work principles and practices, human behavior, and motivational theory.
• Laws, policies, and regulations relating to human services program areas.
• Legal procedures as related to the program area.
• Social, economic and health problems.

Skill in operating a motor vehicle and operating a personal computer with associated software, preferably Microsoft Office. Demonstrated ability to:

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Interview, assess needs, counsel, and refer clients to other resources as needed.
• Develop and implement service plans in order to ensure the delivery of appropriate services to the client.
• Analyze case information to make sound judgments within the framework of existing laws, policies, and regulations.
• Respond to the client's emotions in order to accomplish services objectives.
• Plan and manage own work activities including service delivery, preparing reports and correspondence, record keeping responsibilities, and related activities.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with others.
• Stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field.

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services Field OR minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and experience in a Human Services area as mandated in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia and implemented by the Virginia Board of Social Services.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Possession of a BSW or MSW degree.
• Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license.
• Previous experience working with social work principles and practices.
• Experience with agency associated software.
• Experience in the assigned program area.
• Completion of required training programs.

Special Requirements:

Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. This position is covered under Code of Virginia §63.2-1601.1 or §63.2-1720 requiring the finalist candidate to submit to fingerprinting and provide personal descriptive information for a criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange and a search of the Central Registry. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings. Employee must be willing to work in community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. May be required to participate in afterhours on-call schedule on a rotating basis. Employee must be able to telework if necessary. Complete a minimum of 2 hours of Community Outreach as outlined by the Agency each year. These events are held outside of normal office hours. Driving record must meet agency standard.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applications accepted only through this on-line process. Applicants are encouraged to provide a complete listing of work experience and qualifications on their application and/or resume.

Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, e-mailed, faxed or hand delivered applications will not be accepted. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and/or resume.

Contact Information:

Tonda Wade

tonda.wade@dss.virginia.gov

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer