Social Worker

About the Role

The Social Worker will provide direct support and services to clients as part of the Social Services Department within multiple programs and varying populations. This position involves assessment, intervention, and case management services in both field and office settings, working in partnership with other clinical and healthcare professionals. The role prioritizes services that align with Native cultural values and requires maintaining confidential and accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Provide case management services, including maintaining accurate records and files.
• Conduct assessments and provide intervention/referral services, including preparing letters and documents.
• Provide supervised visitation services for family support and child welfare.
• Offer psychoeducational information and materials to parents and the Pala community to promote healthy parenting styles.
• Prepare court reports and attend court hearings.
• Complete grant reporting and associated activities.
• Maintain client safety and confidentiality.
• Provide mental health/suicide intervention services and make appropriate referrals.
• Offer post-crisis follow-up services, including coordinating services and referrals.
• Assess for food insecurity and provide appropriate referrals.
• Provide supervision and managerial functions, including planning, organizing, and directing other social workers and caseworkers.
• Apply regulations and policies pertaining to the social services department.
• Make administrative suggestions and recommendations to develop and improve processes, including policies.
• Provide comprehensive case management services to Tribal members across the lifespan.
• Develop culturally appropriate service plans in collaboration with clients and interdisciplinary teams.
• Recruit, train, and support Tribal foster and kinship care providers.
• Monitor child placements to ensure compliance with ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) and Tribal standards.
• Work collaboratively with courts, child welfare agencies, and biological families to promote family reunification when appropriate.
• Assist individuals and families in accessing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and long-term housing.
• Advocate for clients in housing court and with landlords.
• Coordinate with housing authorities and Tribal housing programs to ensure safe and affordable living conditions.
• Support Native youth in navigating educational systems (K-12 and post-secondary).
• Collaborate with schools to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and advocate for academic accommodations.
• Address barriers to attendance, engagement, and success, including transportation, mental health, and family issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Counseling, Sociology, or a related field from an accredited college or university, or a combination of four years of education and work experience in a similar or related field.
• Must pass pre-employment and random drug testing during employment.
• Must acknowledge and agree to maintain a Drug-Free workplace (including marijuana) as a condition of employment.
• Must be able to pass a background check and work with vulnerable populations.
• Must have a valid Class “C” driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Must be willing to work in the field and travel within and outside the city.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred; if not certified, must complete within 60 days of hire.

Skills & Qualifications

• Knowledge and understanding of child development, child welfare, and behavioral health.
• Ability to work independently with a strong commitment to teamwork.
• Proficiency in using computers for data entry and periodic reporting.
• Endorsement and support of family preservation goals, Tribal culture, and philosophy.
• Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain ethical guidelines and collaborate with community partner agencies for appropriate referrals.
• Previous experience working with Native American populations or individuals with mental health challenges preferred.

Additional Information

The Pala Band of Mission Indians will give hiring preference to fully qualified applicants who are Pala Tribal Members. All employees are expected to follow the Tribal Employee Handbook and adhere to any additional applicable addendums.

This is a full-time position with occasional nights and weekends required.