Hiring Range: $55,000.00 to commensurate with experience
Full Time or Part Time: Full Time
Additional Detail
Position Levels
Family Services Specialist I (Entry Level)
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Works under close supervision while receiving training in assigned program areas
- Performs routine to journey-level casework with supervisor review prior to case action
- Develops foundational skills in assessment, service planning, and case management
- Progressively assumes greater responsibility as knowledge and skills increase
Key Responsibilities
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Interview clients and assess needs, including social, economic, and support factors
- Develop, implement, and monitor individualized service plans
- Inform clients of program requirements, rights, and available services
- Provide ongoing case management and monitor compliance
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation and case records
- Coordinate services with internal staff and external community partners
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams and case staffing
- Track services, expenditures, and program data
- Assist with program administration and reporting requirements
- Serve as a resource to clients and the community
- Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies as required
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge
Abilities
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Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Interview, assess needs, and provide appropriate referrals
- Develop and implement effective service plans
- Exercise sound judgment within policy and legal frameworks
- Manage time, caseloads, and competing priorities
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships
- Adapt to challenging and sensitive situations
Minimum Qualifications
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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
(Per Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia)
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in one or more human services program areas (e.g., Adult Services, CPS, Foster Care)
- BSW or MSW degree
- Virginia Social Worker license
Working Conditions
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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:
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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.
