SOCIAL SERVICE COUNSELOR 1, 2, 3 OR 4A

About the role

The Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections – Corrections Services seeks a compassionate, motivated, and skilled Social Service Counselor to join our dedicated team. This role promotes public safety and strengthens communities through professional corrections services.

Responsibilities

• Obtains and prepares social histories of clients for treatment teams and referrals.
• Participates in treatment team decision-making, formulating therapeutic activities, and recommending treatment plans.
• Schedules appointments, evaluates client progress, and recommends changes to the treatment team.
• Counsels clients, manages caseloads, and coordinates admissions, discharges, and follow-up services.
• Serves as a liaison between clients, families, and the agency/institution.
• Aids in securing necessary resources for clients, including institutional placements, transportation, financial assistance, medical equipment, shelter, food, and clothing.
• Affirms eligibility for services and makes recommendations to the criminal justice system or employers regarding client progress.

Requirements

• Three years of social services experience; OR Six years of full-time experience in any field; OR A bachelor's degree.
• Experience Substitution: 30 semester hours = 1 year of experience.
• Necessary Special Requirement: Certification or eligibility for certification issued by the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority (ADRA).

Qualifications

• Building and Supporting Teams: Ability to combine actions and efforts with others to work toward a common goal.
• Focusing on Customers: Understanding and meeting the needs, preferences, and experiences of internal and external customers.
• Making Accurate Judgments: Assessing options, weighing risks, and making sound decisions using available information and logical reasoning.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Defined benefit pension plan.
• Health insurance available post-retirement.
• At least 10 paid holidays.
• Sick and annual leave that rolls over from year to year.
• Paid or time off accrued for hours worked over 40 per week.
• A deferred compensation plan.
• A flexible benefits plan.
• Alternative work schedules.

Pay

• Special Entrance Rate (SER) at each level.
• Salary determined based on qualifications and experience.
• Premium pay based on years of service with DOC.

Schedule

• Set, predictable schedules.
• A supportive multidisciplinary team.
• Security measures ensuring safety.

Application

To apply, click on the “Apply” link above and complete an electronic application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. There is no guarantee that everyone who applies will be interviewed. For further information, contact Chassity Rheams at Chassity.Rheams@la.gov.