Family Services Specialist III

Job Summary

The selected candidate will assume complex duties such as coordinating the Foster Care and Adoption Services of the agency in accordance with the guidelines of the Virginia Department of Social Services. This position requires the development and implementation of individualized service plans and involves responsibility for out-of-home placements, emergency protective orders, and testifying in legal proceedings.

The candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Family Services Supervisor. The Family Services Specialist III is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist IV classification by its focus on case management rather than lead or expert-level work.

General Work Tasks (Illustrative Only)

Monitor, coordinate, and administer assigned programs.

Coordinate services within specific areas of responsibility.

Develop and write service plans; present cases for review to determine appropriate services.

Track expenditures, prepare and submit budget estimates, and ensure payments for services.

Interpret and apply relevant laws, policies, and regulations.

Manage program waiting lists and monitor service delivery.

Provide case management services and monitor client compliance.

Refer families to community-based treatment and support resources.

Attend and testify in court proceedings; coordinate cases with attorneys and legal representatives.

Provide parental education, guidance, and support for target populations.

Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to child / adult protective services and foster care emergencies.

Interview all involved parties, assess immediate and long-term risks to children, and document findings.

Develop written service plans outlining goals, objectives, and service details for each assigned case.

Knowledge

Considerable knowledge of social work principles and practices.

Understanding of human behavior and motivational theory.

Knowledge of laws, policies, and regulations related to human services programs.

Familiarity with investigative and interviewing techniques.

Knowledge of legal procedures related to social services.

Awareness of social, economic, and health-related issues affecting individuals and families.

Skills

Proficient in operating a personal computer and associated software applications.

Skilled in operating a motor vehicle as required for fieldwork and home visits.

Abilities

Demonstrated ability to :

Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Conduct interviews, assess client needs, counsel, and make appropriate referrals.

Investigate high-risk cases and testify confidently in court proceedings.

Develop and deliver training programs and presentations.

Interpret and apply program laws, policies, and regulations.

Develop and implement individualized service plans ensuring appropriate delivery of client services.

Analyze case information and make sound judgments based on policies and regulations.

Respond empathetically to client emotions and maintain professionalism under stress.

Represent the agency in community programs, workshops, and public events.

Plan and manage workload efficiently, including documentation, reporting, and recordkeeping.

Build and maintain effective relationships with clients, colleagues, and partner organizations.

Stay informed on current trends and developments in social work practice.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors degree in a Human Services field or a Bachelors degree in any field with at least two years of appropriate and related Human Services experience (as defined in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia).

Considerable experience in the assigned program area and completion of required training programs, or an equivalent combination of education and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

Possession of a BSW or MSW degree.

Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license preferred.

Special Requirements

Applicants are subject to DMV / driving record checks, Central Registry (CPS) checks, and criminal history background checks.

The background investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment and education verification, and reference checks.

Must be willing to work in a community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.