HS IHSS Social Worker I/II/III - Agency Promotional

Under direct (I) or general (II/III) supervision, conducts assessments using experiences, observations, and judgement to evaluate the effect of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment on function to determine eligibility and authorize services for aged, blind, disabled adults, and children needed to prevent out-of-home care.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Each level (I-III) differs from the preceding level in that work is done more independently with a higher level of initiative, self-direction, and judgment. Consultations with lead and/or supervisor vary depending on levels of case complexity.

• Human Services (HS) In Home Supportive Services Social Worker I is a classroom and on-the-job entry-level classification where the emphasis is on learning casework methods, procedures, regulations, and policies. The incumbent carries a caseload under direct supervision and is expected to progress toward competency as an HS In Home Support Services (IHSS) Social Worker II.
• Human Services (HS) In Home Supportive Services Social Worker II is the journey-level classification where the incumbent demonstrates working knowledge of practices in accordance with the State of California In Home Supportive Services Program.
• Human Services (HS) In Home Supportive Services Social Worker III is the advanced journey-level classification where the incumbent works independently to provide complex services under general supervision. The incumbent demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of In Home Supportive Services requirements and may serve as a resource for the team.

Pay

• HS IHSS Social Worker I: $23.00 - $30.67/hourly
• HS IHSS Social Worker II: $25.74 - $34.33/hourly
• HS IHSS Social Worker III: $27.56 – $36.75/hourly

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate possesses the minimum requirements and has experience working with the disabled and aging population; field work experience including conducting assessments; caseload management experience; experience using case management software; and strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following competencies:

• Adaptability & Flexibility – Responding positively to change and modifying behavior as needed
• Business/Technical Expertise – Skillfully applying specialized job-related knowledge
• Communication – Respectfully delivering pertinent, truthful, and timely information
• Customer Service – Ensuring consistent, responsive, and superior service delivery
• Professional Integrity & Ethics – Demonstrating high standards of conduct
• Results Focus – Initiating tasks and meeting organizational goals
• Attention to Detail – Accomplishing tasks thoroughly with concern for all elements
• Self-Management – Exemplifying personal organization and dependability
• Conflict Management – Preventing and resolving disputes
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving – Analyzing and evaluating information logically
• Decision Making – Exercising discretion and good judgment
• Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging – Valuing varied backgrounds and promoting equal access
• Information Gathering – Proactively obtaining facts and data
• Resilience – Maintaining emotional stability under challenging demands
• Writing – Effectively communicating information in text

Responsibilities

• Conducts initial assessments and annual reassessments to evaluate the effect of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairment on function and determine client needs through interviews, home visits, record reviews, or consultations.
• Refers, determines eligibility for services, authorizes and/or coordinates services to complete individual service plans.
• Follows through with caseload management to ensure timely and complete service provision.
• Prepares reports and records; maintains databases using program-specific systems.
• Communicates program policies, rules, and regulations to clients and others.
• May conduct provider interviews, educate and counsel providers and recipients, and conduct training and orientations.
• Performs other related duties as required.

HS IHSS Social Worker III additional duties:

• Assists in training and mentoring new staff.
• Independently provides assessments to clients, including initial and/or reassessments as needed.

HS IHSS Social Workers are represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and are eligible for overtime compensation.

Requirements

These are entrance requirements to the exam process.

Agency/Department: Currently working as a Regular employee for the County of Ventura Human Services Agency. A Regular employee holds an allocated full-time or part-time position in the County budget.

Education, Training, and Experience

• In Home Supportive Services Social Worker I:
  • A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in social work, human services, or a closely related field; OR
  • Four (4) years of human services or social work experience providing direct client service.
• In Home Supportive Services Social Worker II:
  • A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in social work, human services, or a closely related field; AND
  • One (1) year of human services or social work experience providing direct client services.
  • Additional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis, up to four (4) years.
• In Home Supportive Services Social Worker III:
  • A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in social work, human services, or a closely related field; AND
  • Two (2) years of human services or social work experience providing direct client services.
  • Additional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis, up to four (4) years.

Necessary Special Requirements (all levels)

• Must possess and maintain a valid California driver license.
• Must furnish a personal vehicle for job use; mileage reimbursed by the County.
• Duties require driving to client residences, which may be unsanitary or unsafe.
• May be exposed to sick, disabled, hostile, uncooperative, or mentally unstable clients/relatives.
• May require visits to other organizations, agencies, departments, and private businesses.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, demonstrated in the application process.

Working Conditions

• Worksite reassignments may occur due to operational requirements.
• Work is primarily performed in an office environment but requires frequent home visits.