Commonwealth of Virginia

Family Services Specialist I

Commonwealth of Virginia  •  Sussex, WI (Hybrid)  •  7 days ago
Apply
AI can make mistakes so check important info. Chat history is never stored.

Job Description

Position Levels

Family Services Specialist I (Entry Level)

  • 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

  • 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

  • FSS I: Basic knowledge of social work principles, human behavior, and social service systems

Abilities

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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.

Commonwealth of Virginia

About Commonwealth of Virginia

The Commonwealth of Virginia is located in the South Atlantic region of the United States. It was the 10th state to be admitted to the Union on June 25, 1788. Home to approximately 8 million residents, Virginia is the 12th most populous state in the United States. The capital is Richmond, and its most populous city is Virginia Beach.

The narrative history of the Commonwealth of Virginia often begins with the founding of Jamestown in 1607, near what is now modern day Williamsburg, Virginia. Jamestown became the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and the Virginia General Assembly, established on July 30, 1619, is now recognized as the oldest legislative body in the western hemisphere. When Virginia became a royal colony in 1624, the robust tobacco trade that had been developing in Virginia helped establish the American colonies as a powerful economic force. During the American Revolution, Virginia witnessed the final surrender of British forces at Yorktown and later became known as the birthplace of many revolution-era figures and future American presidents, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. To date, 8 United States presidents have been born in Virginia, more than in any other state.

The modern government of Virginia is nearly identical in structure to the federal government, and is divided into 3 branches, these being the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches. The Virginia General Assembly is comprised of the 100-member House of Delegates and the 40-member Senate. A governor and lieutenant governor are elected every 4 years. Governors cannot be elected to or serve consecutive terms. Virginia’s judicial system consists of the Supreme Court of Virginia and the Court of Appeals of Virginia, the Circuit Courts, and the lower General District Courts and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts. Virginia has 13 electoral votes in presidential elections, and possesses 11 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Industry
Government & Public Safety
Company Size
1,001-5,000 employees
Headquarters
Richmond, VA
Year Founded
1776
Social Media