FAMILY SERVICE WORKER

$36,155 - $52,425/Yr

State of Arkansas - Sheridan, AR

Full-time - Entry Level

Sheridan, AR

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Family Service Worker (FSW) is responsible for providing protective foster care and supportive services for abused or neglected children. This role involves investigating child abuse and neglect complaints, intervening in crisis situations, and developing case plans to support families in need. The FSW works closely with clients, foster families, and various community resources to ensure the safety and well-being of children and families in challenging circumstances.

Responsibilities

• Investigates suspected child abuse and neglect complaints by making on-site visits and interviewing involved parties.
• Discusses investigative findings with supervisor and recommends protective services or foster care cases.
• Intervenes in crisis situations and arranges for temporary placement of children in foster homes or treatment facilities.
• Develops case plans with goals, objectives, tasks, and time frames for all parties involved.
• Provides counseling and guidance to clients, helping them define their needs and refer them to appropriate services.
• Recruits and trains families for foster care, conducts home studies, and assesses family situations for child placements.
• Visits clients and foster parents regularly to monitor progress toward case objectives.
• Documents all case work activities and prepares court reports for custody hearings, presenting testimony when necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, or a related field.
• Successful completion of a six-month training class within the agency's core training period.
• Ability to evaluate family problems and develop action plans.
• Knowledge of counseling, social work, and case management principles.
• Ability to interview and obtain information effectively.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with children and families.
• Experience with community engagement or community resources.
• Public speaking skills.
• Computer experience.
• Strong organizational skills.

Benefits

• Pension plan
• Maternity leave
• Paid state holidays
• Health insurance options
• Professional development opportunities