Social Services Program Specialist

General Description

Under general supervision of the Bureau for Social Services, Division of Program Support Program Manager, these positions perform work in the field of social services to plan, develop, implement, and manage programs that address the needs of individuals; act as liaison to facilitate problem resolution and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, laws, policies, and procedures governing the program or operational area;

and, have primary responsibility for developing standards for social services programs and for monitoring and/or evaluation operations. These positions will assist with implementing the Placement Division by initiating and securing placement, and providing consultation to staff, supervisors, and BSS Social Service Managers for children with placement disruptions, children being placed in Out-Of-State facilities, children with no placement and children who are difficult to place.

These positions may act as lead workers for other professional staff. Performs related work as required.

Under general supervision of the Bureau for Social Services, Division of Program Support Program Manager, these positions perform work in the field of social services to plan, develop, implement, and manage programs that address the needs of individuals; act as liaison to facilitate problem resolution and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, laws, policies, and procedures governing the program or operational area;

and, have primary responsibility for developing standards for social services programs and for monitoring and/or evaluation operations. These positions will assist with implementing the Placement Division by initiating and securing placement, and providing consultation to staff, supervisors, and BSS Social Service Managers for children with placement disruptions, children being placed in Out-Of-State facilities, children with no placement and children who are difficult to place.

These positions may act as lead workers for other professional staff. Performs related work as required. Applicants must possess a valid WV driver’s license, and reliable transportation. Applicants also must have strong communication skills, both oral and written, and maintain detailed records and extensive documentation. Frequent travel may be required. Successful completion of a background check is required for employment.

Posting Number: BSS
27OP
P003 Counties of work:
Statewide Position Number: 0511P04439

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Three (3) years full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience in an area related to social work, social services, or child welfare.

Additional education may substitute based on a year-for-year basis or as determined by the Office of Shared Administration Equivalency Chart .

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 driver’s license.

Applicants hired into this classification 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, they may not perform duties that require a licensed social worker under state law or Board regulation.

The Bureau for Social Services champions the security, permanence, and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, empowering individuals and strengthening families. Formerly the Bureau for Children and Families, the Bureau for Social Services operates under the West Virginia Department of Human Services, serving children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Equipped with extensive training to handle delicate situations with compassion and dignity, these workers contribute to the advancement of a vibrant and healthy West Virginia by facilitating access to crucial healthcare, essential social services and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive, and healthy environments.

Through this hard work, at risk populations can begin to thrive within the community.