Social Services Director (SSD or LSW)

Job Description

Job Description

Our Mission: At Merit House, our mission is to create a place where patients, families, and staff feel respected, supported, and truly cared for. We focus on individuality, dignity, and delivering care with integrity.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated Social Services Designee or Licensed Social Worker (LSW) to join our skilled nursing and long-term care team! As a Social Services Director, you will serve as an advocate for our residents, supporting their emotional, social, and psychosocial needs while helping them maintain their highest practicable quality of life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess and address residents' psychosocial, emotional, and social needs within the scope of the position.

• Advocate for residents' rights, dignity, preferences, and independence.

• Provide emotional support to residents and families during admission, adjustment, and transitions in care.

• Complete social services assessments, documentation, and care plans accurately and within required timeframes.

• Participate in interdisciplinary care plan meetings and collaborate with nursing, therapy, and other departments.

• Coordinate discharge planning, including referrals for home health, durable medical equipment, transportation, and community resources.

• Assist residents and families in accessing appropriate services and support.

• Assist with assigned MDS documentation within the employee's training and qualifications.

• Address resident and family concerns and assist with grievance resolution.

• Support resident and family council activities.

• Maintain accurate and confidential resident records in accordance with HIPAA and facility policies.

• Assist with survey preparation and social services-related quality improvement initiatives.

• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and Ohio nursing facility regulations.

• Report suspected abuse, neglect, or other resident safety concerns in accordance with applicable reporting requirements.

Qualifications:

• Must meet the applicable qualifications for the Social Services Designee position or hold an active Ohio Licensed Social Worker (LSW) license.

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with residents, families, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet documentation deadlines.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations professionally.

• Ability to meet applicable background screening and employment requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active Ohio LSW license.

• Previous experience in social services within a skilled nursing or long-term care facility.

• Degree in social work, human services, psychology, sociology, or a related field.

• Knowledge of resident rights, discharge planning, care planning, and MDS documentation.

• Experience with electronic medical records, such as PointClickCare.

What We're Looking For:

• Someone who understands that social services is about more than paperwork. Our ideal candidate:

  • Genuinely cares about residents and their families.

  • Is a strong advocate for resident dignity, choice, and independence.

  • Can navigate difficult conversations with compassion and professionalism.

  • Is organized, dependable, and detail-oriented.

  • Takes ownership of resident concerns and follows through.

  • Works well with nursing, therapy, admissions, and administration.

  • Is passionate about improving the overall resident experience.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees.

• Paid time off for eligible employees.

• Supportive leadership and a collaborative team environment.

• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in residents' lives every day!

Benefits:

• Benefits are subject to eligibility and applicable plan terms.

Apply Today!

If you are a Social Services Designee or Licensed Social Worker who is passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you! Join our team and help us create a supportive, compassionate environment where every resident feels heard, valued, and respected. Apply today through Indeed!

Equal Opportunity Employer:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.