Social Worker III - Guardianship

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. The anticipated hiring range for this position is $27.45 to $31.91 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. Responsibilities Provide ongoing guardianship case management to adults adjudicated incompetent and assigned to the DHHS Director by conducting monthly and as‑needed contacts with wards and facility staff, traveling to visit wards residing in home, assisted living, nursing home, group home, or out‑of‑county placements, and coordinating services and supports to monitor condition, identify changes requiring intervention, and ensure the health, safety, and well‑being of each ward in accordance with NC General Statute 35A and the Provision of Services Manual. Collaborate with facility staff, medical providers, mental health professionals, and other service providers by attending care plan meetings and medical appointments, advocating for needed services, and following up to ensure services are received and the ward's needs are met. Obtain and evaluate information regarding recommended treatments and procedures for wards — including invasive and non‑invasive procedures, surgeries, DNR orders, life‑prolonging measures, and hospice — by exploring treatment options and risks, informing wards and family members of medical conditions, and compiling medical decision packets for presentation to the DHHS Director for authorization in accordance with established standards of practice. Coordinate placement changes, financial matters, and benefit administration for wards by arranging transitions and providing adjustment support, processing financial mail, applying for Medicaid, Medicare, Veterans, and Social Security benefits, maintaining records of identification and insurance documents, and collaborating with Guardians of Estate and representative payees to ensure financial needs are met. Assess adults referred for guardianship services by evaluating capacity, available supports, and risk factors; initiating court proceedings as appropriate; and petitioning for hearings of incompetency and guardianship to ensure the most appropriate legal protection is established in accordance with NC GS 35A. Prepare and maintain accurate, timely documentation by completing case narratives, service plans, quarterly and annual reports, status reports, and required Clerk of Court filings to ensure compliance with NCDAAS policy, legal standards, and agency expectations. Provide after‑hours coverage on a rotating basis to respond to status changes of wards during nights, weekends, and holidays, and assist with emergency shelter operations and other duties as assigned to support departmental needs. Qualifications MSW from an accredited school of social work. Master's degree in counseling or human services field and one year of directly related experience. BSW from an accredited school of social work and completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative (Child Welfare positions only). BSW from an accredited school of social work and one year of directly related experience. Bachelor’s degree in a human services field from an accredited college/university and two years of directly related experience. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university and three years of directly related experience. A valid driver’s license is required. Additional Requirements A copy of transcripts must be included with the application. Failure to attach your college transcripts will result in an automatic rejection of your application. 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 to be subject to a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gaston County Government