Job Description

Posting number: 27-00856

Department: Family Services

Job classification: Senior Family Services Specialist / Grade 125

Posting type: Open

Categories: Social Services, Miscellaneous, Human Services, Social Sciences, Community and Social Services

Summary

Loudoun County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country, known for its excellent quality of life and strong economy, while embracing its historic presence. Located 35 miles west of Washington DC, Loudoun County offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Loudoun County Department of Family Services seeks a dedicated and experienced professional as a CPS Senior In-Home Services Specialist. The successful candidate will join the Child Protective Services program within the Department of Family Services which envisions better health, safety, and well-being for all. We support individuals and families in the community to live their best lives while advocating for those most vulnerable and respecting their right to self-determination.

Examples of duties

The In-Home Services team consists of a CPS Supervisor, a Senior Family Services Specialist serving as the Senior Worker and team lead, and six Family Services Specialists. As the Senior Worker, this position provides technical guidance, mentoring, training and support to Family Services Specialists, as well as supervision and support to interns. This position is part of a team responsible for responding to the needs of children and families who require significant support and intervention.

The Senior Family Services Specialist conducts comprehensive assessments of children and their families. Responsibilities include interviewing children, parents, guardians, and collateral contacts to assess safety, risk, strengths, and needs using trauma-informed and strengths-based practices. The position develops and implements individualized safety and service plans designed to promote child safety, stability, and well-being while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, policies, procedures, and regulations, including requirements for accurate, complete, and timely documentation.

This position requires the ability to respond effectively to critical situations, provide crisis intervention, and implement services that promote the safety and well-being of children and youth. The Senior Family Services Specialist also contributes to a supportive work environment by encouraging professional growth, productivity, collaboration, and teamwork among staff.

The successful candidate will work within a forward-thinking organization and must demonstrate adaptability, sound judgment, and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and community needs. Clinical supervision is available to eligible employees upon hire.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide technical guidance, mentoring, and training to Family Services Specialists by explaining program policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Serve as supervisor in the supervisor's absence.
• Conduct comprehensive, in-depth client assessments with minimal oversight, identifying strengths, risks, needs, and available supports.
• Develop individualized service plans and provide clinical case management, case oversight, and therapeutic interventions to help clients achieve or maintain the highest level of independence and well-being possible.
• Document client service histories accurately and timely using appropriate state and local case management systems, including opening, updating, and closing records.
• Provide courteous, professional, and timely customer service to County staff, vendors, citizens, and other visitors.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with community resources and partner agencies to support program goals and meet the needs of children and families.
• Identify opportunities for community-based resources and services to provide additional assistance and support.
• Collaborate with medical providers, law enforcement, federal law enforcement, school systems, and other community professionals to promote and ensure the safety of children.
• Complete special projects and assignments independently or as part of a team.
• Perform other essential duties and functions as assigned based on the needs of the position and department.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Knowledge of social services systems and human services programs serving children, families, and adults, including trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches.
• Knowledge of casework practices and applicable child welfare laws, regulations, and policies.
• Skill in assessing safety, risk, and service needs; developing service plans; and providing case management and crisis intervention.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and coach staff while promoting a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with clients, families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and exercise sound professional judgment in complex or critical situations.

This position is eligible for a $3,000 hiring bonus.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required AND three (3) years of directly related experience in a human services area.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Major coursework in a human services field.
• Bilingual skills in Spanish and English.

Supplemental information

Pass pre-employment background checks to include criminal, fingerprinting, credit, CPS/APS, and DMV checks. Valid driver’s license and good driving record (driving records may be reviewed annually for continued qualification).

Hold or obtain certifications such as CPR if required for assigned position. Obtain specific training such as CPS/Foster Care/APS state training as required or desired for assigned area.