Social Worker (Program Coordinator)

$99,513 - $129,362/Yr

United States Department of Veterans Affairs - Chicago, IL

Part-time,Full-time - Mid Level

Onsite - Chicago, IL

Administration of Human Resource Programs

About the position

The Senior Social Worker for the Caregiver Support Program (CSP) at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center is a pivotal role that focuses on providing clinical evidence-based services and interventions to caregivers, veterans, and their families. This position is aligned under the Social Work Service and is responsible for program development, education on caregiver issues, and the implementation of the Program of Comprehensive Assistance to Family Caregivers (PCAFC). The incumbent will work independently at an advanced practice level, utilizing specialized knowledge and skills to address complex medical and mental health conditions that affect veterans and their caregivers. The Senior Social Worker will provide leadership and direction to the CSP team, facilitating in-service training and staff development programs. They will also conduct clinical support activities, including case consultations and mentoring for less experienced team members. The role requires the incumbent to monitor program management, assess workload trends, and recommend enhancements to improve program effectiveness. Additionally, the Senior Social Worker will serve as a liaison between CSP staff and program management, ensuring that clinical issues concerning veterans and caregivers are addressed effectively. Regular home visits to veterans and caregivers participating in the PCAFC are a key responsibility, along with responding to inquiries from the National Caregiver Support Hotline. The incumbent will create educational tools and develop training programs tailored to the specific needs of caregivers, veterans, and VAMC employees. Building strong relationships with stakeholders, including local, state, and federal agencies, is essential for providing comprehensive support and referrals to various services. The Senior Social Worker will also participate in community activities to promote caregiver recognition and support, including organizing events for National Family Caregivers Month. Crisis intervention services will be provided to address caregiver stress and emotional distress, ensuring that caregivers receive the necessary support to continue their vital roles.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, direction, and coaching to the Caregiver Support Program team.
• Facilitate clinical staffing and case consultations as needed.
• Monitor program management and recommend enhancements for effectiveness.
• Serve as a liaison between CSP staff and program management regarding clinical issues.
• Maintain a data monitoring system to measure program efficacy and assist in reporting.
• Conduct regular home visits to veterans and caregivers participating in PCAFC.
• Respond to calls from the National Caregiver Support Hotline and general inquiries.
• Advise and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on caregiver issues.
• Create educational tools and develop training programs for caregivers and staff.
• Build relationships with stakeholders, including veterans, caregivers, and agencies.
• Provide referrals to VA medical and mental health treatment and community services.
• Participate in caregiver support activities in the community and state.
• Coordinate events for National Family Caregivers Month, including educational sessions and recognition events.
• Provide crisis intervention services and coordinate family/caregiver conferences.
• Assess caregiver stress and develop clinical treatment interventions.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
• Must have a master's degree in social work from an accredited school of social work.
• Must be licensed or certified by a state to independently practice social work at the master's degree level.
• Must demonstrate advanced practice skills and judgment in social work.
• Knowledge of program coordination and administration, including consultation and negotiation.
• Ability to write policies, procedures, and practice guidelines for the program.
• Ability to supervise multidisciplinary staff assigned to the program.
• Skill in organizing work, setting priorities, and meeting multiple deadlines.
• Ability to provide training and guidance within clinical practice.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with the Caregiver Support Program or similar programs.
• Familiarity with federal and state legislation related to caregiver support.
• Experience in crisis intervention and mental health support.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.
• Access to a range of health and wellness programs.
• Eligibility for annual leave and sick leave accrual.
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.