Massachusetts Jobs

Licensing and Training Social Worker I The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is seeking a dynamic individual to fill the critical role of Licensing and Training Social Worker I. The primary responsibility of this position is to assess, train, and license prospective foster, kinship, and pre-adoptive families. Additionally, the Licensing and Training Social Worker I will be responsible for conducting annual and interim assessments of licensed foster, kinship, and pre-adoptive families. This role involves working under the general supervision of an employee of higher grade, who will provide training, guidance, work assignment, and performance reviews to ensure effectiveness and adherence to laws, regulations, and Department policy. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children and families in need. If you are passionate about child welfare and dedicated to ensuring the well-being of children, we encourage you to apply for the position of Licensing and Training Social Worker I with the Department of Children and Families. DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: · Conduct comprehensive assessments of prospective foster, kinship, and pre-adoptive families to determine their suitability and readiness to provide care for children in need. · Evaluate prospective families' living conditions, background checks, references, and other relevant information to assess their ability to meet the needs of children in their care. · Collaborate with other professionals, such as psychologists or medical experts, to ensure a thorough assessment of prospective families. · Develop and deliver training programs to prospective foster, kinship, and pre-adoptive families to enhance their understanding of child welfare policies, procedures, and best practices. · Prepare and present training materials in an engaging and informative manner. · Address questions, concerns, and provide support to prospective families throughout the training process. · Facilitate the licensing process for approved foster, kinship, and pre-adoptive families, ensuring adherence to applicable laws, regulations, and Department policies. · Maintain accurate records and documentation related to licensing and compliance activities. · Conduct regular home visits and assessments to ensure licensed families continue to meet the required standards and provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. · Collaborate with other social workers, case managers, and professionals involved in the child welfare system to ensure the overall well-being and safety of children. · Provide ongoing support and guidance to licensed families, addressing any challenges they may face and offering resources and referrals as needed. · Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and other collaborative activities to promote effective communication and coordination of services. · Other related duties as assigned. Qualifications: * · Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field. Master's degree preferred. · Prior experience in child welfare, foster care, adoption, or related fields is highly desirable. · Knowledge of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and best practices in foster care and adoption. · Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and policies governing child welfare services. · Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse individuals and families. · Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize workload effectively. · Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment and maintain effective working relationships. · Proficiency in computer applications and database management. *PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE (List knowledges, skills and abilities)* * 1. Knowledge of principles and practices of social work and social casework; 2. Knowledge of interviewing techniques; 3. Knowledge of the methods used in report writing; 4. Ability to check and verify information; 5. Knowledge of family dynamics and human behavior; 6. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; 7. Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities; _About the Department of Children and Families:_ The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is committed to upholding the fundamental mission of protecting children from abuse and neglect to ensure they are able to grow and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. DCF’s vision is that all children have the right to grow up in a nurturing home, free from abuse and neglect, with access to food, shelter, clothing, health care and education. DCF works toward establishing the safety, permanency and well-being of the Commonwealth's children by: stabilizing and preserving families; providing quality temporary alternative care when necessary, safely reunifying families; and when necessary and appropriate, creating new families through kinship, guardianship or adoption. Preferred applicants will possess a demonstrated commitment to the core practice values: 1) child-driven, 2) family-centered, 3) community-focused, 4) strength-based, 5) committed to diversity/cultural competency, and, 6) committed to continuous learning. For more information about DCF: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-children-families _Pre-Offer Process:_ A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website. If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete theReasonable Accommodation Online Request Form. For questions, please contact the Office of Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122 and select option #4. First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Applicants must have (A) a Bachelor's degree or higher in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, counseling education or criminal justice or a relevant human services degree and (B) a current and valid Licensures 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. *Applicants at the Department of Children and Families must obtain the required license in Social Work within the first nine (9) months of employment. The classification may require possession of a current and valid Motor Vehicle Driver's License at a class level specific to assignment. _Comprehensive Benefits_ When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future. Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards! *An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role. Job: Community and Social Services* *Organization: Department of Children & Families *Title: *Licensing and Training Social Worker I - Northern Regional Office Location: Massachusetts-Lawrence - 280 Merrimack St Requisition ID: 24000569