Job Description

Posting number: 2027-00616

Department: Department of Community and Human Services

Division: CENTER FOR ADULT SERVICES

Job classification: HUMAN SERVICES SPECIALIST II /GS 17

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Clerical & Data Entry, Community Services, Health Services, Mental Health, Public Health, Redevelopment, Social Services, Professional, Human Services, Community Development, Customer Service, Records Management, Counseling, Communications, Health Care Support, Rehabilitation Services

Summary

1735255409753.png

Human Services Specialist II

The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the seventh largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Alexandria has a charming waterfront and is a unique and historic place to live and work. About one-quarter square miles in the city have been designated as a national or local historic district. We proudly embrace our rich history and seize the endless opportunities that lie ahead. If you are interested in working for the vibrant City of Alexandria, we invite qualified candidates to apply for our Human Services Specialist II position.

An Overview

This Human Services Specialist II position is responsible for assessing, coordinating, monitoring, and linking service delivery for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Assists individual and his/her families/guardians/other substitute decision makers in acquiring services to better meet the individual’s needs. Coordinates and monitors the implementation of these various services with the purpose of assisting the individual to live, work, and recreate in the least restrictive environment. Monitors the individual’s person-centered plan for progress towards outcomes. Employee work is completed under the supervision of the ID Support Coordination Supervisor.

What You Should Bring

The ideal candidate should have thorough knowledge of human development, neglect, substance, behavioral health disorders and health issues. Knowledge of available community resources, such as medical, legal, mental health and, economic and social services. Knowledge of treatment issues related to behavioral, emotional, economic and social problems, including dual diagnosis, and chemical dependency. Skill in engaging a variety of clients and in communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing with clients, other professionals and citizens. Ability provide prevention and education services. Ability to evaluate client needs and formulate goals to resolve social and emotional problems.

The Opportunity

• Conducts face to face visits with individuals at their day program, work site, or residence.
• Meets and assists individuals/families/providers to complete assessments and to identify individuals’ interests, preferences, and needed services.
• Provide referrals which meet the individuals’ needs, talents or desired outcomes. Links to resources in the community and monitors the delivery of services.
• Maintains appropriate documentation in individual record according to federal, state and departmental policy.
• Participates in various interdisciplinary team meetings for the coordination of continued care for individual and/or his/her representative. Maintain contact with medical, psychiatric, and administrative staff concerning health and safety needs.
• Coordinates and prepares the annual individual support plan whether funded by the CSB, Medicaid Waiver, non-waiver or other funding sources. Implements person-centered thinking (evidence-based practices) and planning with all individuals. Ensures that all service providers Individual Support Plans (ISP’s) are written and implemented using person-centered concepts and are submitted in a timely manner (Documentation).
• Assesses individuals to determine if they meet the ID Medicaid Waiver criteria for services.
• Advocates for DD Waiver slots and links to community-based services as needed. Completes DBHDS mandated assessments with individuals (VIDES, SIS etc.) needed for Medicaid Waiver plans.
• Assists individuals/representatives in applying for government benefits which may include Social Security, Medicaid, and Department of Rehabilitation benefits.
• Facilitates the evaluation of individual’s ability to give informed consent regarding life planning and reviewing services. Facilitates inclusion of authorized representatives, guardians, and/or representative payees when appropriate. Maintains contact with authorized SDMs (supportive decision makers).
• Initiates and monitors referrals for transportation to day programs and other community engagement opportunities.
• Accompanies individuals to various appointments such as medical, dental, financial, court/legal, recreational, Housing Authority, volunteer, or employment related.
• Completes referrals for the REACH Program when clients are in behavioral health crisis.
• Provides crisis intervention including supportive counseling, referral for mental health intervention, or coordinating immediate medical attention.
• Attends all, State, City and agency required training.
• Follows HIPPA laws in confidentiality and State human rights policies.
• Performs related work as required.

About the Department

The Center for Adult Services (CAS) provides programs and services in Aging; Adult Protective Services; Clinical & Emergency Services; and Community & Residential Support Services for seniors and for persons with mental illness, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders. CAS provides compassionate and effective person-centered services based on best practices. Our teams support self-determination, safety and recovery for Alexandria residents affected by abuse, neglect, mental illness, intellectual disabilities and substance use disorders.

Examples of duties

Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field; three years of experience in the provision of mental health and/or substance abuse treatment services, including some experience at the level of Caseworker; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Employees must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of their residence.

Qualifications

Master’s Degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field; At least one year of experience working with Community Medicaid Waivers. Proficiency using electronic health record system Credible and Microsoft Suite. Familiarity in using Virginia’s WaMS (Waiver Management System). Ability to communicate in Spanish using all modes of communication.

Supplemental information

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT: This Human Services Specialist II Position is covered by the Administrative and Technical Collective Bargaining Agreement with AFSCME.

These positions require the successful completion of pre-employment background checks including but not limited to: FBI/Federal Records Check; VA State Child Abuse/Neglect Registry; Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Database; Verification of education/certifications; and Driver's license.

Schedule:

Monday through Friday, 8:00AM – 4:30PM