Social Worker

Joining the team at Gaston County Government means being part of a community that is dedicated to improving the lives of its citizens. We are a dynamic organization that values innovation, collaboration, and commitment to service. As an employee of Gaston County, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in your community every day. Whether you are working in public safety, social services, or administration, your contributions will help improve the lives of our residents and build a better future for our county. Description Gaston Social Services: Protecting, caring for and empowering children and adults who are temporarily or permanently unable to care for themselves through the administrating of federal, state and county programs focused on improving the well-being of our citizens. The goal of the Gaston County Human Services Center and Division of Social Services is to foster an agency which is professionally responsive to our citizens' needs through daily caring outreach and simultaneously serve as an advocate for those in need. We strive to be community-minded and community-spirited. We abide by federal, state and county operating instructions in providing services and we assist welfare recipients in attaining self-sufficiency. Examples of Duties The anticipated hiring range for this position is $30.43 - $36.14 The duties listed below are not all of the duties that may be assigned but are those that are considered as essential for an employee to perform. Assesses reports of abuse, neglect, or dependency of children using either a forensic investigative assessment approach or a family assessment approach depending on the severity of the maltreatment reported, and in accordance with state law and divisional policy governing such. Preliminary reviews existing DSS documentation (if such exists) and staffs response process with Supervisor. Conducts a comprehensive assessment including interviews of all victim children, all caretakers, all person living in the home, all appropriate collaterals (as indicated by both the reporter and the family being investigated), and all other persons, entities, agencies, professionals, relatives, etc. who might have knowledge about family relationships, behaviors, and incident (or incidences) that prompted the report to DSS. Works collaboratively with law enforcement, and prosecutors on joint investigations of forensic nature. Follows mandated timeframes and procedures for appropriate initiation and continuous process of assessment. Observes the home structure and environment, ensuring that persons, provisions, and location are able to meet the basic needs of each child involved in the report. Completes safety assessments (initial and final) and all structured documentation tools with the family to promote transparent process. When necessary, explores alternative safety resource placement option with the family, in order to avoid removal of physical or legal custody. Engages the family in planning for safety and well‑being, encouraging immediate action and front loading services. Incites the professional opinions of necessary contributors (law enforcement, medical personnel, mental health professionals, etc.) in order to adequately determine what safety measures are necessary. Invokes court action when children cannot be safe in their own homes, seeking direction through legal consultation, and completion/filing of all necessary court paperwork. Accompanies law enforcement to take physical custody of child(ren). Collaborates with internal licensing/placement experts to identify and locate placement that best meets the needs of the child and physically delivers the child to caretaker. Participates in forensic joint interview at the local Child Advocacy Center on appropriate cases (with law enforcement and any other appropriate professionals). Participates in unit/team staffing on weekly basis, presenting completed case assessments for unit/team decision-making. Solicits guidance, direction, support from supervisor individually at any point in case and/or requests assistance in completing tasks, if needed. Documents all activities, contacts, dates and times on structured documentation tool in NC Fast. Requests necessary supporting documentation from external sources (i.e. medical/hospital records, police reports, 911 response sheet) and places such in case file. Participates in local, professionally-enhancing, and state-mandated trainings. Participates in monthly MDT meetings where specific cases are discussed in a multi-disciplinary setting. Participates in quarterly internal meetings with all fellow assessors to discuss policy changes, service gaps, equipment needs, process instruction, etc. Participates in secondary backup system for after hours on call, covering a one day slot during periods of illness, vacancy, emergency by regular after hours staff. Must be available to work mandatory emergency shelters & other duties as assigned. Special knowledge, abilities, skills, physical requirements, and other factors: Ability to work with families around very intense, very personal situations, and represent authority of DSS, but also engage them as a helping agency. The ability to balance the safety needs for children with empowering families to recognize their natural and community supports. Knowledge of MRS strategies and System of Care desired outcomes helpful. Good child development knowledge, as well as excellent communication skills and use of family-centered practice. Minimum Qualifications MSW from an accredited school of social work and one year of social work experience. MSW from an accredited school of social work and completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative (Child Welfare positions only) Master's degree in counseling or human services field and two years of directly related experience. BSW and completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative and one year of directly related experience (Child Welfare positions only) BSW from an accredited school of social work and two years of social work or counseling experience. Bachelor's degree in a human services field and three years of directly related experience. Bachelor's degree from a four‑year college or university and four years of directly related experience. A valid driver's license is required. A copy of a transcript must be included with the application. FAILURE TO ATTACH YOUR TRANSCRIPTS WILL RESULT IN YOUR APPLICATION BEING REJECTED. Additional Information The applicant selected must undergo a criminal background check and pass a drug screening test prior to employment. In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2 (b), if the position being filled requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the County must require the applicant, if offered the position, to be subject to a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI. These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S.143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties. At Gaston County, we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees, job applicants, and members of the community we serve. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable laws. Gaston County will not sponsor applicants for work visas. Full-Time employees are eligible for the total compensation package which includes: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Life Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts Retirement Savings Plans Pension 401K (with 5% county contribution annually) Flexible Work Schedules Professional Development Opportunities Discounted YMCA Membership Part-Time employees are eligible for certain benefits as a part of employment with Gaston County such as: Pro-Rated Sick and Annual Leave Professional Development Opportunities Local Government Retirement Plan Employee Assistance Program Half-Time employees are not eligible for benefits. To learn more details about the many benefits we provide view our Employee Benefits Guide. Overall, if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career with competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, Gaston County is the place for you. 01 High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED) Associate degree Bachelor's degree Master's degree Professional degree Doctorate degree 02 Do you possess a MSW from an accredited university? Yes No 03 Do you possess a BSW from an accredited university? Yes No 04 If You Do Not Have a BSW Or MSW, Please Select The Type Of Major That You Possess From The Following List Counseling and Guidance Rehabilitation Counseling Sociology Psychology Counseling Psychology Family Studies Criminal Justice Therapeutic Recreation Special Education Child Development and Family Relations Other 05 If your major was not listed, please list the major you possess: 06 Have you successfully completed the Child Welfare Collaborative? Yes No N/A 07 Do you have valid driver's license? Yes No 08 Have you attached a copy of your college transcripts as required? Failure to do so will result in your application being rejected. Yes No Required Question #J-18808-Ljbffr