Adult Guardianship - Social Worker

About the Role

Join Wake County as an Adult Guardianship Social Worker and make a real difference in your community by advocating for vulnerable adults. In this vital role, you will serve as a surrogate decision-maker for adults assessed as lacking the necessary capacity by the Wake County Clerk of Court. You’ll assess needs, coordinate essential services, and step in during critical moments to help improve clients’ quality of life.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough needs assessments and make informed decisions about medical care, social engagement, and safe living arrangements
• Provide crisis intervention and effective problem-solving to support clients during urgent or unexpected situations
• Ensure each client has consistent access to personal necessities and safeguard belongings during changes in residence
• Complete and maintain all required state, county, and court documentation and reporting
• Advocate for clients by helping them secure all benefits for which they qualify
• Stay informed through required and recommended trainings to ensure compliance with evolving policies and procedures
• Attend guardianship court hearings and provide professional testimony as needed
• Participate in a weekly rotating after-hours on-call schedule with 16 other Adult Guardianship Social Workers

About Our Team

The Wake County Department of Social Services team is grounded in a deep commitment to connection, compassion, and community. We bring together experienced professionals who collaborate to support individuals and families through complex challenges, connect them with critical resources, and promote long-term stability. We value insight, innovation, and a solutions-focused approach.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field
• Two years of job-related experience
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record

Qualifications

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Social Work experience with disabled adults and/or experience with an Adult Guardianship program
• Master's degree in Social Work and one or more years of experience working with the elderly, or adults with mental illness, intellectual developmental disabilities, or substance abuse
• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Sociology, or Social Work and three or more years of experience working with the elderly, or adults with mental illness, intellectual developmental disabilities, or substance abuse

Skills

• Adaptability
• Keen attention to detail
• Knowledge of basic office technology
• Initiative
• Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Integrity
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Accountability and tenacity
• Expertise in report writing
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Pay

Hiring Range: $29.60–$39.96 per hour
Market Range: $29.60–$50.33 per hour

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:15 PM

Location

HSC Swinburne, Raleigh, NC 27610

Employment Type: Regular

Posting Closing Date: 7:00 PM on 8/6/2026

About Wake County

Consistently ranked among the best places to live and work in America, Wake County is home to NC State University, Research Triangle Park, and the Carolina Hurricanes. Raleigh, the county seat, is also the center of state government. With over 1.2 million residents, Wake County is North Carolina’s most populous county. The County uses a Council/Manager form of government and is regarded as fiscally responsible, enjoying a AAA bond rating. Wake County Government was ranked #2 on the Healthiest Employers list for 2024, and Raleigh was ranked #5 on US News & World Report’s list of Best Places to Live and #1 on the Milken Institute’s 2025 list of Best-Performing Cities.