Position Title:

Adult Services Social Worker Department:

Department of Social Services Division:

Adult Services Reports To:

Adult Services Supervisor FLSA Status:

Exempt Salary Grade:

Based on Qualifications as Social Worker I, II or III General Statement of Duties Performs professional social work in the Adult Services Unit involving assessment, intervention, case management, protective services, and coordination of services for vulnerable adults. Responsibilities include providing Adult Protective Services (APS), guardianship and related services, in-home services, adult care home placement coordination, and other programs designed to promote the safety, independence, and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities. Employees exercise considerable independent judgment while adhering to federal, state, county, and agency policies and procedures. The following duties are representative and are not intended to be all-inclusive. Adult Protective Services Receive, screen, and investigate reports of alleged abuse, neglect, exploitation, and self-neglect involving disabled adults. Conduct timely home visits and face-to-face assessments. Assess risk and determine the need for protective intervention. Develop and implement protective service plans. Coordinate emergency interventions when necessary. Maintain detailed case documentation in accordance with state policy. Prepare court reports and testify in judicial proceedings as required. Adult Services Case Management Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments. Develop individualized service plans. Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health professionals, community agencies, caregivers, and family members. Monitor client progress and modify service plans as appropriate. Assist clients in accessing available community resources and public benefits. Guardianship Services Provide case management for adults under county guardianship. Coordinate medical care, housing, financial resources, and supportive services. Maintain regular contact with wards to ensure health and safety. Prepare reports required by the Clerk of Superior Court and other regulatory agencies. Work collaboratively with guardians of the estate, attorneys, healthcare providers, and family members. In-Home and Community Services Determine eligibility for adult services programs. Coordinate in-home aide services and other supportive programs. Arrange alternative living placements when necessary. Assist clients in maintaining the highest level of independence possible. Documentation and Compliance Maintain complete, accurate, and timely electronic case records. Ensure compliance with state performance standards and federal regulations. Prepare statistical reports and documentation required by state and county agencies. Protect confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws.

Collaboration Work cooperatively with:

Healthcare providers Law enforcement Emergency Medical Services Courts Clerk of Superior Court District Attorney Mental health providers Long-term care facilities Community organizations Family members and caregivers Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings. Serve as an advocate for vulnerable adults. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Working knowledge of: Social work principles, methods, and ethics Adult Protective Services laws and policies Aging and disability services Crisis intervention techniques Community resources and support programs Human behavior and family dynamics Interviewing and assessment techniques Guardianship laws and procedures Documentation requirements and case management systems Ability to: Establish effective working relationships with clients from diverse backgrounds. Make difficult decisions involving client safety. Assess complex family and social situations. Maintain professional boundaries. Prepare clear, concise reports. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Manage multiple priorities while meeting required deadlines. Exercise sound judgment under stressful situations. Maintain confidentiality. Testify effectively in court proceedings. Minimum Education and Experience Graduation from an accredited college or university with one of the following: Bachelor's degree in Social Work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education; or Bachelor's degree in a human services field from an accredited institution and one year of directly related experience; or Master's degree in Social Work; or An equivalent combination of education and experience that meets North Carolina Office of State Human Resources qualifications for Adult Services Social Worker. Preferred Qualifications Experience in Adult Protective Services. Experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities. Knowledge of North Carolina Adult Services policies. Experience in crisis intervention and case management. Experience working with electronic case management systems. Physical Requirements Employee must be able to: Conduct home visits in a variety of environmental conditions. Drive throughout McDowell County on a regular basis. Sit, stand, walk, bend, and climb stairs. Lift and carry files and equipment weighing up to approximately 25 pounds. Operate standard office equipment including computers, printers, and telephones. Special Requirements Valid North Carolina driver's license. Acceptable driving record. Ability to travel throughout McDowell County. Availability to respond to emergency situations as needed. Successful completion of criminal background check, reference checks, and any other pre-employment requirements established by McDowell County. Working Environment Work is performed in both office and field settings. Frequent travel throughout the county is required for home visits, investigations, facility visits, court appearances, and meetings with community partners. Employees may encounter individuals experiencing mental illness, substance use disorders, abuse, neglect, or crisis situations requiring sound judgment and professional discretion.