SOCIAL WORKER III - 40001434 1

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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.

Provides services to children in the legal custody of the Department of Social Services who are eligible for adoption due to relinquishment or termination of parental rights.  Maintains thorough documentation of all case activity.  Works in partnership with other community agencies.  Prepares court summaries and participates in associated court proceedings.  Completes adoptive preplacement assessments and child adoption profiles. Recruit adoptive families for children needing adoptive placement resources.  Provides direct services to children and their pre-adoptive families to ensure the protection, safety and permanency of children.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge of child welfare practices, early childhood development and family dynamics needed. 
• Strong ability to assess and determine the needs of children and families
• Adoption and Permanency Planning Experience
• Knowledge in the foundations of adoption
• Strong written, oral, and grammatical skills
• Attention to Detail
• Ability to handle sensitive, confidential and time sensitive information
• Strong judgement ability 
• Ability to be flexible and travel through the state of NC
• Ability to be assertive and empathic 
• Strong organizational skills
• Professional commitment to help children achieve permanency

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Requires an MSW degree from an accredited school of social work and completion of the Child Welfare Collaborative (Child Welfare positions only-must provide certificate of completion); BSW degree from an accredited school of social work or counseling; bachelor's degree in a human services field from an accredited college or university and two years directly related experience; bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and three years of directly related experience.  Candidates with adoption and permanency planning experience preferred. Experience writing Pre-Placement Assessment/Homestudies preferred.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

Requires a North Carolina drivers' license with an acceptable three-year driving record and a vehicle.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE:

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management. 

BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT:

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.