Director of Social Services

Social Services Director

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…