Family Services Specialist II - Reunification & Permanency

The City of Richmond Department of Social Services is seeking a highly qualified candidate to fill the vacancy of Family Services Specialist II in the Reunification and Permanency Unit. The incumbent is responsible for individual and family needs assessments, case plan development and implementation, resource referrals, and client advocacy. Developing service plans and providing case management for children and families; Determining eligibility and setting up service payments; Coordinating foster care and adoption placements; Working to promote reunification/permanency through implementation of current social work best practice models; Working with the Courts, Children's Services Act (CSA) Office, and community agencies to ensure that children in foster care are safe, appropriately placed, and have access to necessary resources; Recording case file information electronically ensuring accuracy in a timely manner; Engaging various family components by developing relationships with clients served; Responding to and managing on-call duties; Other related duties as assigned. •City of Richmond Department of Social Services employees are considered essential personnel may be required to work during inclement weather and times of declared emergencies. •

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Considerable knowledge in principles and practices in the human services field, including knowledge of programs, social-economic trends, and behaviors that impact the delivery of human services; and State and local policies and procedures, laws, and regulations. Demonstrated skills in advocating and counseling; administering individual and family assessments and interpreting results; Interviewing; Case management, including reporting and documenting; Oral/written communication; and conducting forensic interviews. Demonstrated ability in understanding and interpreting policies, procedures, regulations, and laws; thinking critically; manage time effectively; make sound judgments; problem solve; and analyze, assess, and evaluate data.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field OR Bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area (Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia) Experience in assigned program area and completion of required training programs or equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or

OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record.

PREFERRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Two (2) or more years of Social Work experience working with families; Advanced computer, written and oral communication skills; Knowledge of best practices and policies used throughout the reunification and permanency process; Working knowledge of the Commonwealth of Virginia court system; Proficient crisis intervention techniques and case management skills; Effectively develop relationships among a diverse, socio-economic class of clients; Ability to read, write, and speak Spanish fluently. Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are preferred.