Social Worker III - Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS)

Job Overview Under general direction, this position provides skilled social work services to cases requiring maximum service and involving a variety of complex social problems and treatment plans. The Social Worker III position is part of the Social Services Agency under the Department of Family and Children’s Services and involves a range of child safety, well‑being, and permanency assignments. Responsibilities Receive and make reports of alleged child abuse and/or neglect. Assess and investigate allegations of abuse or neglect. Develop appropriate interventions and provide referrals for services. Monitor services for children and parents. Remove children from unsafe environments when necessary. Provide case management services. Prepare documentation, case plans, safety plans, court reports, and other legal documents. Provide testimony in court and respond to court action. Assess and evaluate potential caregivers. Place children into appropriate homes. Conduct home visits with children, caregivers, and parents. Address issues specific to children and families such as substance abuse, intimate partner violence, mental health concerns, sexual abuse, parenting issues, developmental issues, immigration, and psychosocial issues. Typical Tasks on the Job Receives assignments requiring specialized and/or intensive casework where cases are likely to involve emotional difficulties and chronic adjustment problems. Investigates allegations of abuse and neglect of dependent and elder adults when assigned to Adult Protective Services (APS); investigates allegations of abuse and neglect of minors, often under time constraints, and determines if removal of the child from the home is necessary when assigned to DFCS. Manages a caseload accountably. Evaluates client problems, develops complete treatment plans and follows each case through to solution. Develops case plans, court reports, and associated legal documents. Testifies in court and responds to inquiries regarding court action. Conducts field visits and evaluates compliance with court orders. Consults, refers cases, and works actively with other agencies and community groups, legal and medical professionals. Establishes and maintains effective case‑work relationships. Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing. Prepares case records, documents, reports, and correspondence in a timely manner, as required. Interprets rules, regulations, policies, and programs for clients and the public. Acts as a resource specialist and maintains a current listing of community resources for client assistance. May be required to testify in administrative hearings. Assists clients in accessing and utilizing community resources. Provides transportation for clients within county, across county, to other states, and when necessary internationally. May be assigned as a Disaster Services Worker as required. Performs related work as required. When Assigned to DFCS Determines the degree of danger and risk of future abuse and neglect and evaluates children’s and families’ needs for services. Recruits applicants for foster care and adoption. Evaluates suitability of adoptive and foster placements and finalizes adoptions. Qualifications Possession of a Master’s degree in Social Work or an equivalent degree in Behavioral Science, Counseling, Education Counseling, Gerontology, Marriage and Family Therapy, Nursing, Psychology, Social Psychology, Vocational Rehabilitation, or equivalent from an accredited college. Three (3) years of social work experience, of which at least two (2) years are equivalent to a Social Worker II in Santa Clara County. OR possession of a Master’s degree in Social Work and two (2) years of experience equivalent to a Social Worker II in Santa Clara County. Master’s degree in Social Work may be required by statute for certain positions. Valid California driver’s license required prior to appointment and the ability to qualify for and maintain a County Driver’s permit. Knowledge of differential case‑work treatment techniques, behavioral theories, family systems, and ethical practice. Understanding of human growth, developmental stages, and bio‑psycho‑social factors affecting individuals and families. Proficiency with investigative and intervention techniques, effective communication with emotional, irate, or distressed individuals, and computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Familiarity with community resources, rules and regulations governing public social service agencies and protective services. Ability to apply integrated knowledge of all phases of social work treatment, engage clients in problem‑solving, maintain professional relationships, work cooperatively with co‑workers and partners, interpret complex laws, prepare reports, manage a caseload, and respect families’ cultural values. Ability to assess and apply intervention techniques to adults, children, adolescents, and families; utilize a wide range of social work techniques and community resources. Bilingual Eligibility Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those fluent in Vietnamese, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, or ASL. Successful applicants must pass a Level II language fluency examination covering speaking, reading, and writing in the chosen language. Sign‑On Bonus Eligible hires may receive a sign‑on bonus of up to $5,000, subject to discontinuation at any time. Additional Benefits Paid differentials (e.g., for bilingualism or assignment specialization) may be awarded. DFCS Social Worker III assigned to Emergency Response receive a 9% differential above base salary; all other DFCS Social Worker III receive a 6% differential above base salary. #J-18808-Ljbffr County of Santa Clara