Adult Protective Service Worker

Adult Protective Service Workers

Protect adults who are experiencing abuse, neglect, exploitation or may be at risk of immediate danger; provide access to services that support adults and families during times of hardship; and work with families to access social services. This position is critical to the health and safety of West Virginia's vulnerable adults. After completing an in‑house training program, employees perform complex social casework and family intervention services.

Because cases may involve abuse, neglect or exploitation of adults, employees must have the expertise and judgment to evaluate risk and assess levels of danger that may include coordination with law enforcement. Travel and on‑call service during non‑traditional hours may be required. This position is eligible for overtime pay.

• Attend ongoing training to develop comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding adult abuse and neglect.
• Conduct investigations concerning allegations of abuse or neglect by talking with and visually observing affected individuals, and speaking with immediate family, relatives, neighbors, teachers, nurses, doctors, and other relevant parties while reviewing any pertinent records.
• Make an initial assessment of the validity of allegations and the degree of danger adults are in, documenting the results of investigations of the accused.
• Complete family assessments to determine dynamics and problems that may be precipitating abuse or neglect situations.
• Develop effective interventions to strengthen families that address safety, well‑being, and permanency of adults.
• Prepare safety, service, and treatment plans to remedy contributing problems and stop patterns of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and solicit family cooperation.
• Engage families in counseling to resolve problems, refer them to available resources, and monitor safety and risk of further abuse or neglect to prevent recurrence.
• File petitions with the court as needed, testify before the court, and make appropriate placements of adults, including but not limited to staying with relatives, residential treatment facilities, or an emergency shelter.
• Evaluate the progress of families or living environments toward meeting objectives of safety, service, or treatment plans; modify plans as necessary; and determine the eventual disposition of cases.
• Maintain a caseload for programs and services with the adult population; evaluate and approve customer applications for services and eligibility criteria; and maintain active cases for Health Care Surrogate, Guardianship, Homeless, Adult Family Care, and Assisted Living.

Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: None.

Special Requirements: Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation; accessibility to a phone.

Applicants must possess a valid WV driver’s license, strong communication skills (oral and written), maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation, and successfully complete a background check. Overtime hours and frequent travel may be required.

Counties of work: Mercer and Mc Dowell

Position Number:

Note: 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.