Social Worker Senior/Inpatient/UKHC

UK HealthCare; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 37,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky is seeking a Senior Social Worker for inpatient case management in Lexington, KY. The role centers on psychosocial assessment, discharge planning, and collaboration with the RN Case Manager to support patients and families.

The position requires MSW and CSW licensure, with hospital experience preferred. Strong communication and crisis intervention skills are essential, along with proficient Microsoft Office use.

Qualifications

• MSW required and CSW licensure or temporary permit through the Kentucky Board of Social Work.
• Preference for hospital-based social work experience and NASW guidelines knowledge.
• Ability to provide crisis intervention, resource information, and care coordination.

Responsibilities

• Provide medical social services to patients and families and assist in discharge planning with the RN Case Manager.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments for consulted/referred patients and at-risk populations.
• Provide follow-up as needed and coordinate with healthcare teams.

Skills

Hospital social work

Communication skills

Crisis intervention

Active listening

Legal reporting

Case conferences

Bio-ethical consultations

Microsoft Office

Education

MSW

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Posting Details

Job Title Social Worker Senior/Inpatient/UKHC

Requisition Number RE54947

Working Title Social Worker Senior/Case Management

Department Name H4019: Continuum of Care

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 11

Salary Range $27.05-45.70/hour

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education MSW

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience None

Required License/Registration/Certification Certified Social Work ( CSW ) or temporary permit through the Commonwealth of Kentucky Board of Social Work

Physical Requirements This position requires occasionally sitting at a computer workstation for extended periods of time; and performing tasks with repetitive motions (such as typing); and standing or walking with objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Also involves some exposure to loud noises, temperature extremes, hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste, blood-borne or airborne pathogens, and combative/violent people.

Shift ( PEDS 2 (12) weekend 2 (8) weekday) 40 hours.

Job Summary The Senior Social Worker provides medical social services to patients and families in cases where specific problems related to environmental and/or psychological aspects influence the effective inpatient or outpatient; works in tandem with the RN Case Manager to formulate and implement the patient’s discharge plan and assigned medical services. Provides psychosocial assessments for all consulted/referred patients and in situations of abuse and neglect of all age groups; provides follow-up as needed.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities The ideal candidate will possess hospital based social work experience and have Certified Social Worker ( CSW ) licensure; strong understanding of NASW guidelines, related to patient relationships and care; have direct patient care experience; have exceptional communication skills (written & verbal); enjoy working independently as well as closely with their co-workers in a supportive team environment; outstanding computer skills (to include Microsoft Office); above average customer service skills; and active listening skills. Additionally, candidate should be able to provide appropriate crisis intervention, emotional support, resource information, legal reporting, arrange case conferences, and facilitate bio-ethical consultations.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience A minimum of 3 years’ experience providing social services in a medical setting preferred; minimum of 1 year of experience in an acute medical setting highly preferred.

Deadline to Apply 11/16/2026

Our University Community

We value the well‑being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.