Social Worker, Mental Health

human resources department, 701 ocean street, room 510, santa cruz, ca 95060

equal opportunity employer

invites you to apply for:

the job: social worker i is the trainee level class for functions of moderate difficulty in programs such as licensing, in-home support services, and public authority. Incumbents under close supervision are expected to develop knowledge of the laws, policies, and administrative procedures of county social work programs, to learn the principles of human behavior and development, to develop interviewing, counseling, assessment, caseload organization and management skills and to use community resources.

Incumbents are expected to gain the knowledge and abilities to promote to social worker ii. The current vacancies are in the human service department, adult and long term care (altc) division. The list established from this recruitment will be used to fill current and future vacancies during the life of the eligible list. The option for remote work may be available based on the type of work and operational needs, upon successful completion of probation.

the requirements: any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

two years of directly related training or experience which would demonstrate the application of the knowledge and abilities or successful completion of twenty-four (24)

semester units in social welfare, social human services, sociology or other behavior science from a recognized college that demonstrates possession of the required knowledge and

abilities.special requirements: possession of a valid california class c driver license or must be able to provide suitable transportation which is approved by the appointing authority may be required for certain positions.ability to be bonded may be required of positions assigned to the public guardian function.

social worker i

closing date: monday, november 9, 2026

county of santa cruz

county equity statementequity in action in santa cruz county is a transformative process that embraces individuals of every status, providing

unwavering support, dignity, and compassion.through this commitment, the county ensures intentional opportunities and access, fostering an environment where

everyone can thrive and belong.

knowledge: working knowledge of social and economic factors which influence family life. Some knowledge of principles of human behavior and development and psychological defense mechanisms; community resources; public social service and assistance programs; reactions to stress; and interviewing and record keeping techniques.

ability to: learn to apply casework skills to identify the client’s problems; learn to formulate and modify case plans in conjunction with clients; learn to interview effectively, gather information and engage the client in the problem-solving process; learn to manage assigned caseload and establish caseload priorities to meet client needs and agency expectations; understand and explain agency programs, limitations, regulations and policies;

use community and agency resources; communicate effectively in written and oral form;maintain current and accurate records; communicate and relate effectively with clients, who may be emotionally or mentally disabled, medically disabled, elderly, substance abusers, victims of domestic violence or fiduciary abuse; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others, including clients, family members and others who may be under distress or duress;

learn complex laws and regulations and apply them appropriately in management of assigned caseload; work effectively under pressure and deadlines; recognize and analyze problems, gather relevant information, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and respond to case details promptly; and deal with hostile, aggressive and abusive persons.

the examination: your application and supplemental questionnaire will be reviewed to determine if you have met the education, experience, training and/or licensing requirements as stated on the job announcement. If you meet these criteria and are one of the best qualified, you may be required to compete in any combination of written, oral and/or performance examinations or a competitive evaluation of training and experience as described on your application and supplemental questionnaire.

You must pass all components of the examination to be placed on the eligible list. The examination may be eliminated if there are ten or fewer…