Family Services Worker I

Full Job Description

Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) connects eligible citizens to federal, state and local resources for food, healthcare, childcare, cash assistance, workforce development, and energy and utility assistance. Some of the services we provide are Adult Protective Services, Services for at-risk youth and their families, Adoption and Foster Care, Resources for homeless families and individuals in Norfolk, college internships, Senior and Veterans assistance, and more.

The DHS is seeking a Family Services Worker I who conducts home studies to assess family needs. Investigates reports of abuse and neglect of children, the elderly and the disabled and intervenes when necessary. Provides case management for clients in Child Protective Services and Family Support. Develops and implements service plans to address family and individual needs. Maintains records and reports consistent with local, state and federal policies.

Investigate validated referrals of abuse and/or neglect. Continuously assess for safety and risk factors for children.

Manage an assigned workload to ensure interviews, documentation, and safe alternative placements are conducted when necessary and in accordance with federal, state, and local guidance and procedures.

Complete background checks, and work with Law Enforcement when applicable. Complete affidavits and appear in court and testify on behalf of the department for civil and criminal matters as needed.

Conduct research and identify placement options when deemed necessary. Ensure all related documents are electronically scanned to the electronic file.

Respond to CPS hotline calls after hours on a rotating basis.

Requirements

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Investigates referrals of suspected child abuse/neglect.
• Conducts field visits to schools, homes, hospitals, and various community settings.
• Works in collaboration with law enforcement, licensing, and a variety of community partners to investigate/assess child abuse/neglect allegations.
• Determines clients’ needs based on interviews and plans appropriate course of action.
• Advises and arranges protection for clients faced with emotional, physical, and environmental stress.
• Refers high and very high-risk families with a history of sexual abuse, chronic abuse/neglect, domestic violence for case management services,
• Must have the ability to be part of a multi-disciplinary team believing that the best solutions come from the families themselves.
• Take part in family team meetings to assure family empowerment, family involvement and ownership in the service planning process working through to solutions.
• Counsels’ clients to advise them of services available.
• Formulates a variety of court documents,
• Appear in court to advise, recommend, and testify concerning cases,
• Requires knowledge of social work principals and ethics with particular attention to respect and appreciation for family competencies.
• Maintains case files and prepares reports as required including OASIS and other local software programs.
• Requires the ability to work collaboratively with community-based agencies, police department and health care providers and court personnel so that the team works as one in the best interest of the family’s needs and wants.
• Provides crisis intervention when necessary.

Qualifications

Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field and minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area (Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia). Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are desirable.

No experience required.

Additional Information

• Valid Driver's License may be required depending on assignment.
• Successful completion of State mandated training within the first 24 months of employment.
• Signing Bonus: This position is eligible for a one-time $5,000 signing bonus for new hires.