SOCIAL WORKER III (ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES)

Social Worker III (Adult Protective Services)

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DEPARTMENT: Social Services (DSS)

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The person in this position will be responsible for conducting a prompt and thorough evaluation to determine if the disabled adult is a victim of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and is in need of protective services. If it is determined the disabled adult is in need of protective services, this person will also be responsible for developing and implementing a service plan that addresses any identified protective service needs. After services are mobilized, ongoing follow up and assessment of the disabled adult's status to determine continued needs and risks are provided. Counseling with the adult and/or family is essential. A service record is maintained to reflect the adult's services and progress, including State-suggested forms that assist with documenting the social worker's activities. The person's duties also include being On Call after regular business hours. On Call duties include receiving and documenting reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and communicating this information with the On Call After Hours Supervisor. The person may be required to initiate cases accepted for evaluation. Other On Call After Hours duties may include receiving and handling concerns about Durham County DSS Persons Under Guardianship.

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 Conduct prompt and thorough evaluations of disabled adults to determine protective service needs. Develop and implement individualized service plans addressing identified risks. Provide ongoing follow-up and reassessment to monitor client safety and well-being. Offer counseling to adults and/or their families. Maintain accurate service records using state-approved documentation tools. Participate in a rotating weekly on-call schedule as assigned: Receive and document reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Communicate with the On-Call After Hours Supervisor. Address concerns regarding individuals under DSS guardianship.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Comprehensive knowledge of social work principles, techniques, and practices. Ability to think critically and apply sound professional judgment in complex and high-risk situations. Ability to communicate effectively and educate the community about DSS services. Strong understanding of medical, behavioral, and psychosocial issues and treatment theories. Knowledge of family and group dynamics, intervention strategies, and community resources. Familiarity with laws, regulations, and policies governing adult protective services. Excellent interpersonal skills for building rapport and maintaining professional relationships. Strong organizational and communication skills for planning and executing work effectively.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: MSW from an accredited school of social work; BSW from an accredited school of social work; BSW from an accredited school of social work and one year directly related experience; master's degree in counseling in a human services field and one year of social work or counseling; bachelor's degree in a human services field from an accredited college or university and two years directly related experience; bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and three years of directly related experience.

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.