Social Worker, Mental Health

Join to apply for the Social Worker role at State of Wisconsin

The Department of Corrections is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of those in our care. Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others through careers in a variety of fields. Using evidence-based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.

The Department of Corrections is currently accepting applications for Social Worker vacancies throughout the state.

This position assesses problems and capabilities of assigned persons in our care, formulates case plans, monitors progress, provides counseling, and develops and refers individuals to the appropriate institution and community resources upon transfer or release. In addition, treatment efforts are coordinated with other institution and unit staff, parole agents, family members and/or community resources.

A Social Worker Credential from the Wisconsin DSPS is required to be considered for interview.

Social Worker is in pay schedule and range 12-64 and Social Worker - Senior is in pay schedule and range 12-63.

• 0 Years – $32.56/hour – $35.40/hour
• 3 Years – $33.16/hour – $36.11/hour
• 5 Years – $33.76/hour – $36.82/hour
• 7 Years – $34.36/hour – $37.53/hour
• 9 Years – $34.96/hour – $38.24/hour
• 11+ Years – $35.56/hour – $38.95/hour

For candidates hired with a Social Worker Training Certificate (-127) the progression on years of pay will start when a full Social Worker credential is issued (of any of the other types allowed below). Pay will be set in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code in effect at the time of hire. A probationary period is required.

Candidates with no prior permanent employment with the State of Wisconsin in the past 5 years may be eligible to accept a sign‑on bonus of $3,000. The sign‑on bonus will be paid in two installments: $1,500 on the first paycheck and $1,500 with the paycheck for the pay period in which the employee attains permanent status (usually 1 year). (UW System employment isn’t disqualifying.)

To receive the bonus, a candidate must sign an agreement indicating they will remain in that occupational area for a year. If the candidate leaves their occupational area prior to completing the one year, they may be required to reimburse the initial payment.

• Substantial leave time including at least 3.5 weeks of vacation to start, 9 paid holidays, and ample accrued sick time that rolls over each year.
• Insurance:
  Excellent and affordable health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• An exceptional pension plan including a lifetime retirement payment.
• An optional tax‑advantaged 457 retirement savings plan.
• The Well Wisconsin Program helps participants set health and well‑being goals, track progress, stay motivated, and earn incentives.
• Our Employee Assistance Program offers employees and their immediate family a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well‑being.
• DOC is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Please  for a summary of State of Wisconsin employment benefits or  to explore employment benefits on the website.

To help you understand what your benefit package would be worth, please see the Total Rewards Calculator here. Part‑time employees will receive some of the benefits listed above on a prorated basis. Candidates hired into positions that are less than 60% of a full‑time position may not be eligible for all benefits.

These positions will normally be on site, but certain sites may have occasional remote work available. You can ask about a specific location if you are offered an interview. Anticipated schedule will be day‑time hours Monday – Friday and the majority of positions are full‑time. Specifics can be discussed at the time of interview. This position is FLSA Exempt.

This position is not anticipated to travel on a regular basis, but most DOC positions occasionally travel for training, meetings, conferences, or similar events.

Applicants must be legally…