Social Services Specialist

Position Number:
County:
Mississippi
Posting End Date:
March 20, 2026

The Social Services Specialist provides case management, client advocacy, and program support for individuals and families in need. This role requires assessing client needs, connecting individuals to community resources, and maintaining compliance with social services policies.

• Job Series:
  Social Services Programs - Career Path
• Classification:
  Social Services Specialist
• Class Code: SSP
  16P
• Pay Grade: SGS
  06
• Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

• Be prepared to work non-standard work hours, which often include evenings, weekends, and holidays; be on a 24‑hour on‑call rotation for up to 7 days at a time.
• Operate a motor vehicle safely according to applicable laws at any time of day or night. Have reliable personal transportation; extensive in‑state travel ability; maintain a valid driver’s license and current auto insurance.
• Ability to work with families experiencing poverty, addiction, and/or neglect or abuse; to lift weight (i.e., picking up children) up to 50 lbs.; ability to transport children and adults; ability to deal with complex and stressful situations and problem‑solve those situations.
• Assess client eligibility and provide individualized case management.
• Develop service plans tailored to client needs.
• Conduct home visits, interviews, and risk assessments.
• Maintain detailed case records and documentation.
• Advocate for clients in legal, medical, and housing matters.

• Knowledge of crisis intervention and de‑escalation techniques.
• Knowledge of Arkansas social service laws, policies, and regulations.
• Ability to analyze client needs and create action plans.
• Understanding of behavioral health and protective services.

Minimum of two years of work experience in human services programs or public service. Required to have a background check and child/adult maltreatment registry check.

N/A

• Formal education of a bachelor’s degree.
• Experience in working with children and/or families, some experience with community engagement or community resources.
• Public speaking and computer experience preferred.
• Organizational skills are a must.

Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.