Protective Services Worker

Job Description

Job Description

The Protective Services Worker determines the need for protective intervention and the delivery or arrangement of services to abused older adults in accordance with state regulations 651 CMR 5.00. 

Responsibilities include:

• Receives reports of abuse of people 60 years or older.
• Determines whether reasonable cause to believe that a reportable condition exists.
• Determines whether an emergency situation exists and responds accordingly (see CMR 5.00 Section 5.04).
• Conducts an assessment of the abused older adult to include the evaluation of the functional and decisional capacity within required timeframe. Assessments may be conducted in the older adult’s home, nursing facility, or other setting.
• Develops a Protective service plan, and when necessary, arranges for a geriatric evaluation.
• When necessary, petitions the Court for a protective order pursuant to Section 20(A) of the Act.
• Refers determination of serious abuse to the District Attorney of the County and/or The Attorney General’s Office within 48 hours.
• Completes necessary forms and documentation in compliance with the program.
• Maintains work area in a neat and professional manner.
• Provide support to staff with maintaining records, making collateral contacts, and providing emergency visits to assess the needs of the older adult.
• Performs miscellaneous duties and assignments as directed by immediate supervisor.

Essential Functions/Qualifications:

• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in related field with at least one year of relevant experience in counseling, casework or case management providing protective or crisis intervention services.
• Alternatively, a Bachelors’ Degree from an accredited school in social work, psychology, counseling, human development, nursing, sociology, criminal justice, public health, public policy, gerontology or related field with a minimum of two years of experience in counseling, casework or case management providing protective or crisis intervention services.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Communication Skills with employees, older adults, physicians, family members, providers (telephone, email or in person, as needed).
• Written communication skills.
• Demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Meet deadlines in a timely fashion.
• Able to develop and maintain positive effective relationships with providers, older adults, and the public.
• Problem solving skills.
• Works as a member of a team and independently.
• Motor vehicle and Valid Driver’s license; maintain minimum insurance liability on vehicle, complete motor vehicle driving record check and CORI check.
• Accurate record keeping skills.
• Maintain Confidentiality.
• Attention to detail.
• Computer Acuity.
• Ability to be flexible and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Maintain caseload/production at program/department standards

Physical Demands:

• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment (e.g., keyboard, mouse, printer) for extended periods of time.   
• Ability to traverse homes, yards, and stairways.  
• Must be able to sit for periods of time at a computer or while driving.  
• Must be able to carry files of up to 5 pounds and a laptop.