Caseworker, Social Work

Why Join Our Team

The Minnehaha County Human Services department invites applicants to apply for the Caseworker – Safe Home position. Safe Home is a permanent supportive housing program that utilizes the evidence‑based model of Housing First to provide dignified, safe, affordable housing to individuals experiencing long‑term homelessness and alcohol dependence. The program operates on the philosophy that having a safe place to live should come first, rather than mandating sobriety to obtain shelter.

The program works to increase the physical safety and well-being of residents by more effectively using community resources to reduce jail days, detoxification center admissions, and hospitalizations.

This position provides comprehensive case‑management services to assist individuals with alcohol dependence as they transition from long‑term homelessness to a safe, stable residential environment. Responsibilities also include providing follow‑up and collateral services, liaison services, and other assistance deemed necessary for client success.

• Conduct program screenings, intake assessments, and provide direct case‑management services in individual and group settings, both office‑based and community‑based.
• Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized case service plans based on ongoing assessments; complete required annual case reviews. Provide crisis intervention and basic living‑skill instruction.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and professional documentation of all participant interactions, services provided, and progress toward goals.
• Participate in supervision, training, team meetings, and program‑development activities; coordinate and communicate effectively—both verbally and in writing—with partner agencies, care providers, and family members.
• Advocate on behalf of participants with care providers and community resources; assist participants in accessing essential services such as healthcare, dental care, Social Security benefits, and other public supports. Complete Minnehaha County applications for financial assistance as required.
• Provide community education through networking activities and public outreach efforts.
• Engage in community outreach and relationship‑building to promote program services and support potential participation.

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related human‑service field and one year of relevant experience. Must be age 21 at the time of hiring. Comparable combinations of education and experience may be considered. Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a safe driving record. The ideal candidate will demonstrate grit and resilience in challenging situations, maintain appropriate professional boundaries, and possess enthusiasm for learning new approaches, accepting constructive feedback, and utilizing evidence‑based practices.”

Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender—including pregnancy—sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367‑4337.

• Paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid‑time‑off program; extended sick leave program; inclusion in the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS); and deferred compensation.
• Insurance coverage effective the first of the month following 30 days of employment. Available for employees and dependents.
• Health benefits:
  
  Low deductibles with two network options (Avera or Sanford); county pays 75% of premiums; pharmacy benefits included.
• Dental:
  Coverage through Delta Dental which covers 100% of diagnostic and preventive services.
• Life insurance:
  Basic $15,000 policy for every full‑time employee plus additional $15,000 AD&D benefit; term life and AD&D may be purchased through payroll deduction.
• Retirement:
  Participation in the South Dakota Retirement System; 6% match (8% for certified law enforcement); long‑term disability; vested after three years.
• Deferred compensation:
  Supplemental retirement program available on a pre‑tax or Roth IRA basis.
• Paid Time Off:
  Approximately 128 hours (16 days) per year.
• Holiday leave: 11 days per calendar year.
• Extended sick leave:
  Approximately 48 hours (6 days) per year.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for health care and dependent care.
• Vision plan:
  Low premiums with frame or lens allowance of up to $130 per year and an annual eye exam; options with Pearle Vision, Target Optical, Lens Crafters, and other retailers.