Family Services Specialist I
Family Services Specialist I (Adult Protective Services, Adult Services & Guardianship Focus)
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct assessments to determine client needs, risk level, and service eligibility
- Investigate reports of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation (APS)
- Develop and manage individualized service plans
- Coordinate and monitor guardianship cases, including court involvement and ongoing oversight
- Arrange services such as in-home care, placement, and community-based support
- Maintain accurate and timely case documentation
- Collaborate with courts, medical professionals, law enforcement, and community partners
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams and case reviews
- Assist in other program areas (CPS, Foster Care, Prevention, etc.) as needed
- Provide after-hours on-call coverage on a rotating basis
- Frequent local travel required
- Home visits and fieldwork are essential
Family Services Specialist I (Entry Level)
Family Services Specialist I represents the entry level employees working under close supervision while being trained in program areas such as Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/’Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. Employees perform routine- to journey-level casework activities, and the casework usually is reviewed by the supervisor prior to implementing a case action. Upon completion of the training program and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase as defined by the local agency compensation plan. The Family Services Specialist I is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist II by the latter’s functioning more independently as a full performance Family Services Specialist.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field
OR - Bachelor’s degree in any field with at least two (2) years of related human services experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Adult Services, Adult Protective Services, and Guardianship
- BSW or MSW degree
- Virginia Social Worker license
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of social work principles and human behavior
- Ability to assess client needs and develop effective service plans
- Strong communication and documentation skills
- Ability to manage a caseload and prioritize competing demands
- Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and community partners
- Sound judgment in high-pressure or sensitive situations
Working Conditions
- Frequent local travel required
- Home visits and fieldwork are essential
- Exposure to sensitive or potentially high-risk environments
- Participation in an on-call rotation is required
Benefits
Sussex County Department of Social Services offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees’ health, financial security, and work-life balance:
- Health Insurance: High-Deductible Health Plan with $0 monthly premium for employee-only coverage and employer-funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
- Retirement: Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) (Plan 1, Plan 2, or Hybrid), including mandatory employee contributions
- Group Life Insurance: Employer-paid coverage through VRS equal to 2x annual salary
- Voluntary Benefits: Options including deferred compensation plans, supplemental insurance (AFLAC), optional life insurance, and legal services
- Payroll: Paid semi-monthly
Career Growth Opportunity
This position offers a career pathway from Family Services Specialist I to Family Services Specialist II, based on successful training completion, performance, and agency needs.