Senior Social Worker

Job Description

The Senior Social Worker provides clinical care within the scope of practice of a licensed Social Worker. The scope of services utilizes Social Work modalities that are implemented when working with patients and/or families experiencing complex medical, psychosocial, and discharge-related needs within a hospital setting. The role requires the use of various assessment modules, crisis intervention, experience in discharge planning, and close collaboration with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to support safe, timely, and patient-centered care.

Under the direction of the Director of Social Work, the Senior Social Worker will also guide and coordinate with staff, Interns, and support staff in the performance of duties. The Senior will also perform all functions of Social Worker in their assigned area.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the development of departmental and interdepartmental programs, and implementation of new initiatives that will support both the patients and EHS strategic initiatives.
• Contributes to the assessment of needed resources and accessibility in the community.
• Participates in the development of effective health and social resources list that will support the standard of Care delivery model.
• Collaborates with staff members to identify unmet psychosocial needs of patients.
• Participates in appropriate research, staff development programs, and community liaison activities.
• Contributes to educational activities including presentation, relaying instructions to graduate students, attending/championing workshops and seminars.
• May participate in hospital committees to discuss social work practice and procedures.
• Performs related duties as required.
• Discharge Planning & Care Transitions Support and guide team in complex discharge planning cases with the collaboration with physicians, nursing, case management, and other allied health professionals.
• Aid team in coordinating transitions of care to home, rehabilitation, long-term care, hospice, or community-based services when needed.
• Identify and address psychosocial barriers to timely discharge.
• Leadership & Consultation Act as a clinical resource and consultant for complex acute care cases.
• Provide mentorship, and guidance to junior social workers, students, or interns.
• Support ethical decision-making, capacity assessments, and conflict resolution.
• Participate in quality improvement, patient flow, and system-level initiatives related to acute care services when required.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain timely, accurate documentation in the electronic health record in accordance with acute care standards.
• Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and professional social work requirements.
• Absorb assistance in monthly QAPI (Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement Projects, accreditation activities, and risk management processes).

Requirements

• Current License to practice as a Clinical Social Worker in New York State required, plus specialized certifications as needed.
• 3-5 years of relevant Health Care experience, required.

Education & Licensure

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
• Current NYS LCSW.
• Current registration/licensure with the relevant professional regulatory body.
• Advanced clinical or healthcare-related certification (preferred).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong clinical judgment in high-acuity, time-sensitive situations.
• In-depth knowledge of hospital systems, patient flow, and community resources.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Cultural humility, empathy, and professionalism.