Social Work Assistant

Duties Description

• Facilitate OPWDD's Mission by maintaining individuals in Family Care and helping them to live richer, more independent lives, enjoy meaningful relationships and fully participate in their communities.
• Complete monthly visits to Family Care homes to review records and ensure that all program and environmental standards are being met.
• Ensure the Family Care Provider receives and understands the current Staff Action Plan, and documentation of services is completed accurately.
• Process TABS payments and other reimbursements made to Family Care Providers.
• Review Personal Allowance ledgers and receipts monthly, count cash on hand quarterly, and complete annual Personal Expenditure Plan (PEP).
• Adhere to all regulatory and agency policies and procedures related to Family Care.
• Communicate with the Family Care Coordinator and administrative staff on any issues within the Family Care Program that might compromise the individual’s safety in the home.
• Participate in team meetings to develop the Staff Action Plan, Safeguard Summary, and Life Plan.
• Communicate with the team including the Care Manager, regarding recommendations to address the individuals’ needs and safeguards.
• Field work is required.
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.
• Manage an assigned caseload to link individuals with agencies, programs, and services that meet their psychosocial needs.
• Conduct individual assessments using questionnaires, observations, and interviews.
• Serve as a member of a multidisciplinary treatment team; present case management information and participate in the development of individualized service plans.
• Assist and participate in individual, group, and family counseling sessions.
• Coordinate with county, municipal, and voluntary human service agencies regarding available services and developing new or required services for individuals.
• Assist individuals in applying for services, completing paperwork, and conduct follow‑up visits to ensure services meet individuals’ needs.
• Advocate for the needs of individuals, ensuring appropriate services and protection of legal and human rights.
• Prepare written assessments, progress notes, reports, letters, and other communications; maintain a wide variety of individual records.
• Schedule medical, dental, and other clinical services for individuals.
• May perform the full range of supervisory duties over lower‑level direct care staff.

• Open Competitive: A bachelor's degree in a human services field and one year of social work experience.
• Substitution: A master’s degree in a human services field can substitute for one year of specialized experience.
• Transfer:
  Candidates must have one year of permanent competitive or 55‑b/c status in the posted title and be eligible for lateral transfer; or be eligible to transfer via Section 70.1, 70.4, or 52.6 of Civil Service Law.

OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

• Paid Holidays and Leave:
• Thirteen (13) paid holidays each year.
• Thirteen (13) days of paid vacation leave initially.
• Five (5) days paid personal leave each year.
• Thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave each year (PEF/CSEA), which may carry over from year to year.
• Up to three (3) days professional leave each year to participate in professional development events.
• Health Care Coverage:
  Employees and their eligible dependents can choose from a variety of affordable health insurance programs. Employees are provided family dental and vision plans at no extra cost.
• Paid Parental Leave:
  Eligible employees may take up to 12 weeks of paid leave at full pay for each qualifying event (birth, adoption, foster placement).
• Retirement Program:
  Participate in The NYS Employees’ Retirement System (ERS).
• Professional Development and Education and Training: NYS offers training programs and tuition assistance to eligible employees.
• Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP):
  Provides professional training opportunities for PEF represented and M/C designated employees, potentially offering continuing‑education credits.
• All OPWDD employees must be eligible for full and unconditional participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.