Social Worker IAT - 2nd Shift

Gaston County Government; North Belmont (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Gaston County Government is seeking a dedicated social worker to join their Social Services team. This essential role focuses on safeguarding children and families facing challenges, requiring thorough assessments and investigations. Applicants must hold an MSW or relevant degree, demonstrate experience in social work, and possess strong communication and collaboration skills. This role demands commitment and readiness for after-hours duties, emphasizing the well-being of children and adults in the community.

Qualifications

• 1 year of social work experience required for MSW.
• 2 years of related experience required for Master's or Bachelor's degree positions.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Assess and document reports of child abuse, neglect, and dependency.
• Conduct comprehensive investigations and collaborate with law enforcement.
• Respond to CPS and foster care cases after hours.

Skills

Assessment

Investigation

Documentation

Collaboration

Education

MSW from an accredited school of social work

BSW from an accredited school of social work

Master’s degree in counseling or human services

Bachelor’s degree in a human services field

Job description

Gaston Social Services Job Description

Gaston Social Services is dedicated to protecting, caring for, and empowering children and adults who are temporarily or permanently unable to care for themselves. We achieve this through administering federal, state, and county programs aimed at improving the well-being of our citizens.

The duties listed below are essential for the role but are not exhaustive of all responsibilities that may be assigned.

1. Work Schedule and Responsibilities: Work an evening schedule from Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend hours for after-hours coverage. Responsibilities include assessing, documenting, interpreting, evaluating, and staffing based on information from reporters of child protective services issues via telephone, office visits, mail, and email. Make recommendations to supervisors on whether reports meet North Carolina statutory definitions and policy guidance regarding child abuse, neglect, and dependency. Conduct these responsibilities promptly to facilitate timely initiation of Child Protective Services Reports. Evaluate needs and refer cases to appropriate helping agencies, and assess the suitability for DHHS interventions.
2. Assessment and Investigation: Assess reports of child abuse, neglect, or dependency using forensic investigative or family assessment approaches, depending on severity and in accordance with state law and policies. Conduct comprehensive investigations, including interviews with victims, caretakers, and other relevant parties. Collaborate with law enforcement and prosecutors on joint investigations. Complete safety assessments and explore alternative safety resources to prevent child removal when possible. Engage families in planning for safety and well-being, and incorporate insights from professionals like law enforcement and medical personnel.
3. After-Hours and Foster Care Duties: Respond to and complete referrals from daytime staff for CPS and foster care cases after hours. Handle emergencies outside of office hours, supervise visitation, children without placement, and transport children to placements as needed.
4. Court and Legal Actions: Invoke court action when children are unsafe, seek legal guidance, and complete or file necessary court paperwork. Accompany law enforcement to take physical custody of children.
5. Joint Investigations and Team Participation: Participate in forensic joint interviews at the Child Advocacy Center with law enforcement and other professionals. Attend weekly team staffing to present case assessments and seek guidance. Document all activities meticulously, including contacts, dates, and times. Collect and file supporting documentation.
6. Training and Meetings: Participate in mandated trainings, monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, and quarterly internal meetings to discuss policy, service gaps, and process improvements.

Qualifications:

• MSW from an accredited school of social work with one year of social work experience.
• MSW with completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative (Child Welfare positions only).
• Master’s degree in counseling or human services with two years of related experience.
• BSW with completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative and one year of related experience (Child Welfare positions only).
• BSW from an accredited school of social work with two years of social work or counseling experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a human services field with three years of related experience.
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with four years of related experience.

A valid driver’s license is required.

A copy of your transcripts must be included with your application. FAILURE TO ATTACH TRANSCRIPTS WILL RESULT IN REJECTION.

The selected applicant must pass a criminal background check and drug screening prior to employment.