Social Services Program Specialist

About the Role

The Social Services Program Specialist performs work at the full-performance level in the Office of Policy and Programs, Division of Children and Adult Services, Policy Unit of the Bureau for Social Services. This position leads all homeless services policy development and maintenance and serves as the primary contact for Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) funds. The incumbent provides administrative oversight for domestic violence and homeless programs, acting as the Bureau for Social Services’ key liaison.

This position coordinates and obtains information related to federal reporting, analyzing and monitoring data, developing reports, and implementing department plans as they relate to these programs. Responsibilities include data analysis, case reviews, writing reports, onsite monitoring, and technical assistance. The role ensures programmatic grant oversight for statewide programs, including domestic violence and homeless services providers, and ensures all state and federal reporting for grant-funded entities occurs within required time frames.

The position supports the development of grants and contracts for statewide programs and represents the bureau on multiple associated workgroups and committees. For FVPSA implementation and oversight, the incumbent assists with monitoring requirements, including noncompliance, research, recommendations for improvement, and development of processes for monitoring FVPSA-related services. The incumbent partners with relevant organizations to provide technical support and monitoring for providers, including performing site visits/reviews of Domestic Violence and Homeless providers.

Frequent travel may be required. Successful completion of a background check is required for employment. A valid WV driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.

Responsibilities

• Performs comprehensive programmatic management of social services grants, including Domestic Violence programs, Homeless Services, and associated grants.
• Acts as liaison to facilitate problem resolution and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, laws, policies, and procedures.
• Develops standards for social services grants and programs and monitors and evaluates operations to ensure effective delivery of services and compliance with regulations.
• Plans, develops, implements, monitors, evaluates, and manages grants, contracts, programs, and positions addressing the needs of individuals and families.
• Engages in strategic planning, coordination, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to enhance program impact.
• Writes and reviews grant applications, monitors grant agreements, develops programmatic reports, and ensures compliance with program instructions for incoming and sub-awarded grants.
• Provides education and training to grantees, agencies, and staff.
• Provides onsite technical assistance to ensure grantees meet agreements.
• Conducts onsite visits with grantees for monitoring activities.
• Develops statements of work and monitors grant activities to ensure compliance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three (3) years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience in social work, social services, or child welfare.
• Additional education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
• For internal applicants: Two (2) years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in Bureau for Social Services’ Field Operations or Field Support positions may substitute for the required experience.
• Valid WV driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must obtain licensure as a Social Worker from the West Virginia Board of Social Work within a timeframe established by the appointing agency. Until licensure is obtained, duties requiring a licensed social worker under state law or Board regulation may not be performed.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Maintains detailed records and extensive documentation.

Demonstrated experience in Child Welfare, Adult Services, Domestic Violence, or Homeless Services is preferred.

About the Organization

The Bureau for Social Services champions the security, permanence, and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, empowering individuals and strengthening families. Operating under the West Virginia Department of Human Services, the bureau serves children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Workers are equipped with extensive training to handle delicate situations with compassion and dignity, contributing to a vibrant and healthy West Virginia by facilitating access to crucial healthcare, essential social services and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive, and healthy environments.