Director of Social Services

Job Description

This position directs, establishes, and plans the overall processes for social services division of the nursing home; coordinates intake admissions and discharge procedures; assessment and care planning; and assists residents and their families.

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Assists with the development, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of social services policies, procedures, and programs; monitors effectiveness and recommends improvements as needed.
• Provides and/or directs social services, counseling, support, education, and resources to residents, families, and significant others to address social, emotional, psychological, and adjustment needs related to admission, placement, transition, and long-term care.
• Coordinates resident intake, admission, and discharge processes; evaluates prospective residents within established guidelines; ensures required documentation is completed and submitted appropriately.
• Supports residents, families, significant others, and staff in promoting resident self-advocacy, quality of life, and quality of care.
• Completes resident histories, assessments, care plans, treatment plans, and required social service documentation; maintains accurate records documenting resident needs, interventions, and progress.
• Participates in the development and implementation of interdisciplinary plans of care that identify resident needs, goals, and appropriate social service interventions.
• Develops and maintains relationships with community agencies and resources; provides referrals and serves as a liaison between the facility, residents, families, and external service providers.
• Assesses resident competency concerns and coordinates appropriate referrals to legal or community resources when needed.
• Provides education and training to facility staff regarding resident rights, psychosocial needs, aging and disabilities, abuse prevention, and related resident care issues.
• Participate in quality assurance activities and interdisciplinary team meetings to promote effective resident care and services.
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and administration to promote and protect resident rights, safety, and overall resident well-being.
• Communicates with medical providers, psychiatrists, and other professionals to coordinate services and address resident needs.
• Assists with the development and implementation of the facility marketing program and community outreach efforts.
• Prepares, reviews, and maintains accurate, timely, and complete reports, records, and required documentation.
• Provides leadership, supervision, direction, and performance management for assigned employees.
• Other duties as assigned.

This section details the essential competencies required to perform the job effectively, including a mix of technical knowledge, practical skills, and personal attributes.

• Familiarity with Wisconsin Statutes, administrative rules, and applicable federal laws, regulations, and policies governing human services and social service programs.
• Knowledge of human behavior, social systems, and community resources to support individuals, families, and vulnerable populations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, including the ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to evaluate complex social, legal, and personal circumstances and determine appropriate courses of action.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, County leadership, elected officials, community organizations, partner agencies, clients, and the public. Knowledge of documentation requirements, regulatory standards, and recordkeeping practices applicable to social service programs.
• Ability to perform work accurately with a high degree of attention to detail while meeting deadlines and exercising independent judgment.
• Knowledge of County policies, procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of local government organization and its departmental operating requirements.
• Technical proficiency in the use of relevant software applications, databases, standard office equipment, and other technological tools relevant to the position (e.g., Microsoft Office, Outlook, SharePoint, etc.).

This section outlines the communication abilities necessary for…