Family Services Specialist I

Salary Range $55,000-$79,088 Position is for a Family Services Specialist I for CPS Title Description- This is a professional position. This recruitment is for positions in Child Protective Services. The Family Services Specialist I represents entry level employees working under close supervision while being trained in Child Protective Services; Family Assessment and Investigation cases, on-going cases ,and Truancy Cases. Employees perform routine- to journey-level casework activities and the casework usually is reviewed by the supervisor prior to implementing a case action. Upon completion of the training program and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase as defined by the local agency compensation plan. The Family Services Specialist I is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist II by the latter’s functioning more independently as a full performance Family Services Specialist. This position specializes in program areas such as interviewing/assessing of child abuse/neglect, out-of-home placements, guardianship, emergency protective orders, testifying in legal proceedings and placing children in foster/adoptive homes. Employees have contacts with others and influence outcome by participating on task forces, strategic planning, mentoring, teaching, and conducting outreach. This position may report to the Assistant Director, Child Protective Services Supervisor or a Senior Worker. Minimum Qualifications Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a human service field or a Bachelor's Degree in any field accompanied by a minimum of two years related experience (Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia). Some knowledge of: social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; and social, economic, and health problems. Knowledge of relevant community and public resources that might be needed for foster children. Skill in operation of a personal computer and the associated software and the operation of a motor vehicle. Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; interview, assess needs, counsel and refer clients to other resources as needed; investigate high risk cases; testify in court proceedings; develop and implement service plans in order to insure 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; work in stressful situations and maintain diplomacy; plan and manage own work activities including service delivery preparing reports and relationships with others; and stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field. Demonstrated ability to interview, collect data, gather information and investigate related to Social Service programs. Preferred Qualifications Prior work experience in a human services field or an internship in a human services field. Current or prior work experience in a local department of social services office. Proficiency in Microsoft Word. Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker License BSW/MSW Bilingual English/Spanish. Experience in assigned program area and completion of required training programs or equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Experience with a local Department of Social Services, Community Service Board or other agency that provides direct services to children, adults and/or families. Experience working with community partners such as: Police Department, School System, County Administrator, Community Service Board, Community Policy Management Team, Family Assessment Planning Team and Faith Based agencies. Experience working with families, conducting meetings and assessing the strengths and needs of children and families. Working knowledge of: social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; laws, policies, and regulations relating to human services program areas; and social, economic, and health problems. Special Requirements Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, OMV/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. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings. May require after-hours on-call. May require reporting for shelter duty during emergencies and/or disasters. A sealed copy of college transcript must be provided prior to employment. Requires valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver's license to include driving record that meets agency standard. Special Instructions to Applicants Applications/resumes for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and resumes will not be accepted. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information provided on the application and resume. Selected applicants will be contacted by the phone number/email address listed on the application or resume. Please refer to your LHRC account for the status of your application and this position. Contact Information Name Marie Hopkins Phone: 540-564-6163 Email: marie.hopkins@dss.virginia.gov Address: Harrisonburg Rockingham Social Services District 110 North Mason Street, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802