Job Description

Posting number: FY26-00010

Department: Public Defender

Job classification: License Master Social Worker, G116, Public Defender's Office

Posting type: Open

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

Summary

The purpose of this position is to assist clients with mental health issues and work closely with individuals who have cases in the court system, providing assistance as directed by the Public Defender.

This job works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

Examples of duties

• Provides social services as a mental health professional to clients serviced by the Public Defender’s Office.
• Links clients to services in the community, refers them to the appropriate service, and assists clients with obtaining benefits.
• Obtains, reviews, and compiles mitigating information and verifies the information.
• Refers clients to agencies that assist in obtaining employment. Complies with terms of release (both bond and probation); facilitates prompt release from detention after case resolution or posting bond, and assists in finding housing.
• Obtains, reviews, and audits clients’ medical, mental health, school, developmental, and employment records.
• Provides referrals and links to community mental health providers for individuals with mental health and intellectual disability diagnoses.
• Assists clients released from County detention facilities with receiving medications.
• Reviews and assigns requests from attorneys for social workers to assist with client cases.
• Completes intake/biopsychosocial assessment on new clients.
• Utilizes short-term interventions, i.e., crisis intervention and/or cognitive behavioral model for clients at the jail or who have been released.
• Provides clients with coping mechanisms while in jail and out of jail for the purpose of preventing recidivism. Coping mechanisms include but are not limited to anger management techniques and anxiety/stress management techniques.
• Utilizes strength-based and empowerment strategies and interventions for the purpose of maintaining motivation for change and maintaining the belief that change is possible.
• Utilizes a problem-solving process to teach clients skills needed to make changes in their lives.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of mental health principles and practices, child and adult psychopathology, effective interviewing techniques, and family systems.
• Knowledge of Criminal Code and Family Code Statutes, legal precedents, and an understanding of the many issues – legal, social, familial, and cultural involved in the consequences of criminal cases.
• Have a strong assessment and counseling background; individual and group therapy methods and practices.
• Knowledge of office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of use and care of office equipment.
• Knowledge of use of computer and office software.
• Knowledge of English usage, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Sociology, Psychology, or a related discipline.
• Two years of mental health case management or related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Must hold an active Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) designation issued through the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners.

Supplemental information

Physical Demands/Work Environment

Occasionally

• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, etc.
• Moving oneself in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments, including tight and confined spaces.
• Moving to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
• Adjusting or moving objects up to 20 pounds in all directions.
• Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
• Driving a County vehicle or a personal vehicle for County business.
• Working in noisy environments.
• Light work that includes carrying objects up to 20 pounds.

Constantly

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Repeating motions that may include the use of wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
• Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting and/or standing.

Other Requirements/Information

• Must possess a valid and current Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving history. *If the applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver’s License must be obtained prior to employment.
• The Webb County Drug and Alcohol Policy applies to this position. Pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, and a criminal background check are required.
• If applicable, this position may be covered by the Civil Service Rules and Regulations and, therefore, may be subject to those rules and regulations in addition to all other Webb County policies.
• Webb County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the County to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.
• If applicable, the position may be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of the County. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job.
• For positions funded in whole or in part through a grant award, employment is contingent upon the continued availability of grant funds and compliance with the terms, conditions, and limitations of the applicable grant agreement. Compensation, benefits, and leave accruals, including vacation, sick leave, and other paid leave, may be subject to grant-specific requirements, to the extent permitted by applicable law and County policy.
• The reduction, expiration, or termination of grant funding may result in the modification or elimination of a grant-funded position.
• This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.