Social Work Assistant 1

Duties Social Work Assistant 1 performs a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to the following: Manages an assigned caseload to link individuals with agencies, programs, and services that meet their psychosocial needs. Conducts individual assessments with questionnaires, observations, and interviews with individuals, families, friends, and community service agencies to obtain background information and prepare case histories. Serves as a member of a multidisciplinary treatment team; presents case management information and observations; and participates in the development of individualized service plans and the revision of individual treatment programs. Occasional travel may be required within region 4; a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required. Assists and participates in individual, group, and family counseling sessions. Coordinates with county, municipal, and voluntary human service agencies regarding available services and assists in developing new or required services for individuals. Assists individuals in applying for services, completing paperwork, and conducts follow‑up visits to ensure services meet their needs. Advocates for the needs of individuals and ensures they receive appropriate services, protects their legal and human rights, and promotes consistent utilization of services and resources. Prepares written assessments, progress notes, reports, letters, and other communications with individuals and service providers; and maintains a wide variety of individual records. Schedules medical, dental, and other clinical services for individuals. May perform supervisory duties over lower‑level direct care staff. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a human services field and one year of social work experience. Master’s degree in a human services field can substitute for one year of specialized experience. One year of permanent competitive or 55‑b/c status in the posted title and eligibility for lateral transfer OR eligibility to transfer via Section 70.1, 70.4, or 52.6 of Civil Service Law. The transfer cannot be a second consecutive transfer resulting in an advancement of more than two salary grades. Benefits Starting salary reflects the Downstate adjustment: statutory hiring rate for PS&T Grade 14 ($53,764) plus Downstate Adjustment ($4,000). Downstate Adjustment is added to the job rate ($68,630). Paid holidays: 13 per year. Paid vacation leave: 13 days initially. Paid personal leave: 5 days per year. Paid sick leave: 13 days per year (PEF/CSEA), which may carry over. Professional leave: up to 3 days per year for professional development events. Health care coverage for employees and eligible dependents; family dental and vision plans at no extra cost. Paid parental leave: up to 12 weeks of paid leave at full pay for each qualifying event (birth, adoption, or foster placement). Retirement program: NYS Employees’ Retirement System (ERS). Professional development and education: training programs and tuition assistance; Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) for certain employees. Access to employee assistance programs, health savings accounts, and other voluntary benefits. OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, who bring diverse perspectives to our workforce. #J-18808-Ljbffr