CQI Specialist/ CFT Facilitator- Children Services

McDowell County; Marion (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

McDowell County is seeking a Quality Assurance / Standards Specialist to plan, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate QA activities across DSS programs. The role focuses on ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local policies, performing audits, and supporting continuous quality improvement.

Salary is based on experience and qualifications. The specialist will review documentation, provide technical guidance, and assist with corrective action plans while promoting program integrity and

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of public social services program principles, practices and regulations.
• Experience with quality assurance methods, case review, auditing techniques, and compliance standards.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to provide technical assistance and training to staff.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quality assurance reviews, case audits, and compliance monitoring for multiple DSS program areas.
• Review case documentation, eligibility determinations, assessments, service plans for compliance.
• Identify trends, deficiencies, risks, and opportunities for improvement in service delivery.
• Assist in developing and implementing corrective action plans and monitoring follow-up activities.
• Coordinate with state representatives, auditors, and external agencies during monitoring visits.
• Maintain records and data related to quality assurance activities and performance outcomes.

Skills

Attention to detail

Regulatory knowledge

Audit & review

Training & coaching

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, Psychology, Sociology, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Data tracking/reporting tools

Job description

The Quality Assurance / Standards Specialist performs professional and technical work involving the planning, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of quality assurance activities for the McDowell County Department of Social Services (DSS). This position is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal, state, and county regulations, policies, standards, and best practices related to social services programs. Work includes conducting program audits and case reviews, identifying compliance concerns, providing technical assistance and training to staff, assisting with corrective action plans, and supporting continuous quality improvement initiatives across DSS programs.

The employee works closely with management, supervisors, and staff to promote accurate documentation, policy adherence, program integrity, and effective service delivery. Work is performed under the general supervision of DSS administration.

Salary is based on experience and qualifications.Social Worker I $38,724Social Worker II $47,064Social Worker III $51,894Social Worker IA&T $57,210

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Conduct quality assurance reviews, case audits, and compliance monitoring for DSS program areas including Child Welfare, Adult Services, Economic Services, and related human services programs.

• Review case documentation, eligibility determinations, assessments, service plans, and program records for compliance with federal, state, and county policies and procedures.

• Identify trends, deficiencies, risk areas, and opportunities for improvement in service delivery and documentation practices.

• Assist in developing and implementing corrective action plans and monitoring follow-up activities.

• Ensure compliance with North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) standards, program regulations, and applicable accreditation requirements.

• Prepare reports, summaries, and recommendations for DSS leadership regarding findings from reviews and audits.

• Maintain records and data related to quality assurance activities and performance outcomes.

Technical Assistance & Training

• Provide technical assistance, guidance, and consultation to supervisors and staff regarding policy interpretation, documentation standards, and compliance expectations.

• Assist with onboarding and ongoing training for employees related to quality assurance standards, case documentation, and program requirements.

• Collaborate with management to develop procedures and workflow improvements that enhance program compliance and operational efficiency.

• Participate in internal meetings, staffing discussions, and quality improvement initiatives.

Program Improvement & Coordination

• Assist with the development and implementation of quality improvement tools, tracking systems, and performance measures.

• Monitor compliance timelines, reporting requirements, and program benchmarks.

• Coordinate with state representatives, auditors, and external agencies during monitoring visits and reviews.

• Support continuous improvement efforts that enhance customer service, program accountability, and outcomes for clients and families.

• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an appropriately accredited college or university in Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, Psychology, Sociology, Business Administration, or a related field and a minimum of three (3) years of experience in social services, program compliance, quality assurance, case management, program monitoring, or related human services work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred qualifications include prior experience within a North Carolina Department of Social Services environment and familiarity with NC FAST, Child Welfare, Adult Services, or Economic Services programs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of principles, practices, and regulations related to public social services programs.

• Working knowledge of quality assurance methods, case review processes, auditing techniques, and compliance standards.

• Knowledge of North Carolina DSS policies, procedures, and applicable federal and state regulations.

• Ability to analyze records, interpret policies, identify deficiencies, and develop practical recommendations for improvement.

• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, maintain accurate records, and present findings effectively.

• Ability to provide technical assistance and training to employees in a professional and supportive manner.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, administrators, partner agencies, and the public.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in sensitive situations.

• Proficiency in computer systems, case management systems, Microsoft Office applications, and data tracking/reporting tools.