Caseworker

About This Role

This Caseworker position involves working under close supervision to formulate and implement plans that address the individual needs of assigned cases. The role requires periodic on-call coverage and the ability to travel.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and carry out plans to meet the needs of the individual or family
• Provide counseling to motivate the individual or family to increase their own capacity and confidence in handling problems
• Study the background and need for care of children referred, securing information from the child, family, relatives, schools, churches, family courts, and other agencies
• When foster care is necessary, determine whether the child's needs could best be met in an institution or a foster family home
• Plan with parents and relatives for the care of children and re-establishment of the home
• Establish a relationship with individuals and families to persuade them to avail themselves of recommended social services
• Identify the need for services through in-depth discussions with clients
• Maintain liaison with various individual agencies to which individuals and families can be referred for services
• Work closely with other staff personnel, such as homemakers, in carrying out the plan for services
• Review existing case records for available information for use in formulating a plan of treatment
• Periodically review cases to determine changes in the individual or family's situations affecting the need for service
• Complete on-call duties for after-hour services as assigned
• Use a PC or similar computer equipment requiring the manipulation of a standard alphanumeric keyboard in preparing case files, etc.
• Perform related work as required

Requirements

• Ability to establish effective working relationships with clients, children, and co-workers
• Ability to operate a personal computer
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to organize and maintain accurate records and files
• Ability to follow oral and written directions
• Ability to aid clients with completion of required forms
• Ability to assist clients to meet their needs
• Ability to compile simple reports; maturity; tact; sensitivity; good judgment
• Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher
• A valid New York State driver’s license and acceptable driving record is required at time of appointment and must be maintained during employment, or must be able to satisfy the travel requirements of the position throughout employment

Important Details

• On-call coverage: periodic
• Travel: required

Application Process

• Submit a copy of your NYS state driver's license with your application
• Applicants may be required to undergo a Local, State, and/or national criminal history background investigation, which will include a fingerprint check, to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification.

Education Verification

• If your degree was awarded by an educational institution outside the United States and its territories, you must provide independent verification of equivalency. You must pay the required evaluation fee.

About the Company

The Department of Social Services provides in-service training through its staff development program.