SOCIAL WORKER I

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DEPARTMENT:

SOCIAL SERVICES (DSS)

DATE POSTED:


AUGUST 5, 2026

CLOSING DATE:


AUGUST 10, 2026

HIRING RANGE:

$49,262.00 - $66,474.00


POSITION NUMBER:


40001502

JOB TYPE:

FULL-TIME, NONEXEMPT

THIS POSITION HAS BEEN REPOSTED; ALL PREVIOUSLY SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS REMAIN UNDER CONSIDERATION AND NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUIRED.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This is beginning level social work providing conventional services to clients who have obvious problems requiring well-established patterns of service. Direct services are provided through a variety of programs in human service agencies. Work involves conducting interviews with clients, relatives, and other contacts to obtain information to be incorporated into a social history which will aid in planning for required services. Work involves tasks such as establishing eligibility for specific programs or services, reaching conclusions as to the most appropriate services, and providing services or arranging services. Employees may provide basic casework services as a member of an inter disciplinary team. Employees give information to clients, answer factual questions, give explanations and interpretations of agency policies and procedures that concern the clients or care givers, and make referrals for other services. Employees report to a higher level professional or program manager.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

This position is responsible for providing counseling, case management, and preventive services to families with children, including those experiencing homelessness. The role conducts interviews and assessments to determine service needs, evaluates eligibility for childcare programs, and ensures accurate documentation in state systems. The employee will identify barriers to employment, make appropriate referrals, and support families in maintaining childcare services. Duties also include applying relevant laws, regulations, and policies when making decisions; organizing and maintaining records; preparing reports; and using a variety of computer applications to manage caseloads and complete work accurately and on time.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

This position requires thorough knowledge of interviewing procedures and practices, as well as an understanding of current social, economic, and health trends and the ability to apply them to practical service delivery. The employee must be able to acquire knowledge of laws, codes, and programs related to human services and communicate effectively both orally and in writing. The role requires the ability to work well with others under stressful conditions, read and interpret moderately complex information, and gather, evaluate, and compile data to prepare reports and make informed recommendations. The position also demands strong judgment, integrity, resourcefulness, accuracy, and thoroughness. Knowledge of governmental and community resources is essential, along with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, clients and their families, care providers, and various community organizations.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's degree in a human services field from an appropriately accredited institution; Bachelor's degree from an appropriately accredited institution and one year of directly related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum of one year's experience in human service field.
• Preference will be given to applicants with knowledge of childcare resources and regulations preferred.
• Preference will be given to applicants with NC Fast Core and Child Care Subsidy Level One Certification.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Candidates will be required to pass NC FAST Certification training upon hire.

This position will be required to work in the office and remotely

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.


BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.