Social Worker I - Western Region - Continuous Posting

State of Massachusetts - Pittsfield, MA

Full-time - Entry Level

Pittsfield, MA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Social Worker I position at the Department of Children and Families (DCF) is a critical role aimed at providing essential services to children in need, including those who are homeless, in foster care, or victims of abuse and neglect. The role involves interacting with children and their families to assess their needs and determine the best course of action to improve their environment. The position emphasizes a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Responsibilities

• Assess, evaluate, and conduct initial and ongoing case management of children and family services.
• Develop, review, update, and ensure implementation of strength-based service plans for each child in care or custody, including risk assessments and safety plans.
• Complete all documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory requirements.
• Attend home and foster care visits; transport children to health, social services, or other agency-related appointments as required.
• Maintain ongoing communication with DCF staff and other constituencies, initiating court action when necessary.
• Empower families to make stable commitments to children by providing counseling and coordinating visits with biological parents and/or guardians and other relatives.
• Attend weekly supervision, weekly staff meetings, in-service training, and team meetings.
• Maintain a high degree of professionalism in the community, with clients, schools, courts, and referring agencies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, counseling education, criminal justice, or a relevant human services degree.
• Current and valid Licensure as a Licensed Social Work Associate, Licensed Social Worker, Licensed Certified Social Worker, or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker issued by the Massachusetts Board of Registration.
• Possession of a current and valid Motor Vehicle Driver's License at a class level specific to assignment.

Nice-to-haves

• Demonstrated commitment to core practice values: child-driven, family-centered, community-focused, strength-based, committed to diversity/cultural competency, and committed to continuous learning.

Benefits

• Comprehensive employee benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.