Under general supervision, provides entry- to mid-level case management coordination services to assigned caseload of clients.
Employees work independently or in a group with some discretion when needed. Employees will assess, interview, plan, monitor, advocate, and provide intervention for their assigned caseload of clients. Some incumbents may serve as team leaders or mentors for a group of other employees in this classification. Employees in this classification will have direct and regular contact with clients. This class is distinguished from the Case Worker II and Case Worker III by the level of experience.
Serves as the primary case worker for clients referred to the agency. Interviews clients, their family and any service provider serving the clients to gather information as needed. Conducts investigations into allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Researches and coordinates protective, preventive, and maintenance services. Develops a comprehensive plan of the clients’ service and treatment needs. Intercedes and advocates on behalf of the client and their families to ensure appropriate, timely and consistent services. Develops and brokers community services where gaps exist. Promotes restorative practices. Visits clients as required by agency policy, procedure, and applicable law(s). Prepares documentation and reports as required for court, agency audits, and financial reimbursement. Represents the agency in court, which may include providing testimony. Maintains case records and narrative for documentation and auditing purposes as required on behalf of the agency. Participates in agency and/or professional staffing on cases as required. Interprets services and programs to other providers, clients, the general public, and to the community. Responds to after-hour calls and emergencies as necessary. Performs emergency services as directed.
Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations, policies and procedures pertaining to programs. Ability to organize and maintain a case load. Knowledge of program objectives. Skill in critical thinking to productively work with a variety of people, manage conflict, assess risk/safety and advocate for clients’ needs. Knowledge related to the well-being and social welfare of vulnerable populations or individuals with disabilities. Ability to effectively plan, coordinate and manage complex approaches to social welfare or mental health interventions. Knowledge of fact-gathering methods and interviewing techniques. Ability to conduct interviews, investigations and surveys. Ability to make sound decisions and exercise judgment and discretion in applying and interpreting policies and procedures. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, families and representatives of other professional disciplines. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to synthesize information gathered from disparate sources and make and communicate decisions based upon the data. Ability to use and manipulate available agency technology in support of the job function. Knowledge of available community resources. Ability to develop and assess resources within the community to assist clients and family members. Knowledge and skill in conducting needs assessment. Knowledge of modern case management and counseling techniques.
Positions may require the successful completion of agency-provided training or related credentials. Employees are subject to being on call during non-business hours. Some positions require the incumbent to travel to multiple locations within a workday. Significant travel within the state may be required.
A high school diploma and related experience. A bachelor’s degree may be substituted for the required related experience.