The mission of the Louisiana Department of Health is to protect and promote health and to ensure access to medical, preventive, and rehabilitative services for all residents of the State of Louisiana.
Learn more about Louisiana Department of Health
This position may be filled in the following parish(es): Lafayette
The Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS) was formed within the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) as a healthcare reform initiative, bringing together long-term support and service programs located within LDH that serve the elderly and people with adult-onset disabilities. OAAS aims to develop, provide, and enhance services that offermeaningfulchoicesforpeopleinneedoflong-termcare.Theofficeiscommittedtodevelopingalong-termcare system that provides choice, ensures quality, and meets the needs of consumers and caregivers in a fiscally responsible manner.
Make a difference where it matters most by joining Adult Protective Services (APS) and helping protect vulnerable adults across Louisiana. As an APS Specialist, you will play a critical role in investigating allegations of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and extortion while advocating for the safety, dignity, and well-being of adults with disabilities. This challenging and rewarding position combines investigative work, crisis intervention, case management, and collaboration with healthcare providers, law enforcement, and legal professionals to create meaningful outcomes for individuals in need. If you are passionate about public service, thrive in dynamic environments, and want a career where your work directly impacts lives and communities, we encourage you to apply.
Job Duties:
Preferred skills and experience – proficiency in Microsoft Office software applications, advanced written and oral communication skills, experience in working with adults with disabilities
A valid driver's license and personal means of transportation are required. This position requires routine statewide duties, including fieldwork, inspections, investigations, or direct services that extend beyond the employee’s domicile parish. These statewide responsibilities are an inherent and ongoing part of the job and may require frequent travel. Conducts intake, investigations, and assessments of complex cases involving abuse, neglect, self-neglect, exploitation, or extortion of vulnerable adults with physical, mental, developmental, or age-related disabilities.
Interviews clients, family members, healthcare providers, and other collateral contacts; reviews records; and observes living conditions to assess risk, determine service needs, and validate allegations.
Assesses clients’ functional and mental capacity, evaluates home and facility environments, and coordinates crisis intervention services to ensure immediate safety and reduce risk of harm.
Develops, implements, and monitors individualized service plans in collaboration with community agencies, healthcare professionals, and service providers to address immediate and long-term client needs.
Coordinates with law enforcement, district attorneys, coroners, legal staff, and community agencies to initiate protective actions, pursue legal remedies, and support criminal investigations when necessary.
Maintains confidential case records, prepares investigative reports and court documentation, updates electronic case management systems, and may testify in court proceedings related to investigations.
Participates in training, staff development, community outreach, and multidisciplinary meetings related to adult protective services, investigative practices, and the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Position-Specific Details:
Location: Office of Aging and Adult Services / AD ADULT PROTECT SVCS COMM / Lafayette Parish. Must be available to work in office, on-site, Monday through Friday from 8:00am until 4:30pm
Appointment Type: This position may be filled as a Probationary appointment
Cost Center: 3201033004
Position Number(s): 50691423
Career Progression: This position may be filled as a Adult Protection Specialist 3.
Compensation: This position is eligible for Premium Pay of additional $2.00/hr. for hours worked.
A criminal background check may be required. Incumbents must adhere to the LDH and OAAS Telework Policies. Incumbents may be required to serve on-call in specific situations or when scheduled on a rotating basis. Work may be required outside the traditional 40-hour work week.
How To Apply:
No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.
Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.
- Information to support your eligibility for the position must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.
Contact Information:
Debbie Parris-Thymes
[email protected]
LA Department of Health (LDH)
Division of Human Resources
PO Box 4818
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
225-342-6477
This organization participates in E-verify, and for more information on E-verify, please contact DHS at 1-888-464-4218.
LDH supports Louisiana’s commitment to being a State as a Model Employer (SAME) by promoting the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.
Information on the Louisiana Works, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services is available here.
LDH is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to recruit a highly productive and diverse workforce and will provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and prospective employees. Employment decisions shall be based strictly on merit and without regard to religious or political beliefs, sex, race, or any other non-merit factor.
