Access Worker - Intake & Assessment

Job Overview

This full‑time case position will be the primary access/intake worker for the Children and Families Unit. Access is a process for receiving, analyzing, and documenting reports of alleged child abuse or neglect. Access/Intake workers must gather sufficient information for decision making related to child safety. Access/Intake then creates an encompassing report/referral in the appropriate database so a supervisor can accurately determine what, if any, action the Department should take in the matter.

Access/Intake workers must possess the ability to provide input regarding screening, urgency, and response time decisions based upon threats to child safety. Access/Intake workers must possess strong interview skills to engage reporters and the ability to accurately and timely document the information received. Duties include being the primary Access/Intake worker Monday‑Friday, writing detailed reports, assessing information as it comes to the Department to determine both present and impending danger.

• Annual wage increase based on eligibility
• Paid, on‑the‑job training and advancement opportunities
• 85% county contribution to health and dental premiums
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available to all employees enrolled in the county’s medical plan, with annual contributions provided by the employer and the health plan
• Wisconsin Retirement – One of the most well managed retirement systems in the nation – Contributions are paid according to current year rates set by WRS Employee Trust Fund. Refer to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for further detail
• County‑paid Life Insurance Policy – coverage equivalent to annual salary – affordable Supplemental, Additional, and Spousal/Dependent coverage available at employee’s expense
• Competitive paid time off including vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer

• Provide Access Intake services. Receive and document primarily child abuse/neglect reports, but may also receive mental health and adult protection referrals and forward to the appropriate staff member. Provide information and resources to those contacting the Department. Conduct initial interviews in order to determine the nature of access or service need and what unit or department is best able to assist the consumer.
• Documents all casework in accordance with Federal and State laws and mandates and in accordance with County policies and procedures on all referrals related to child abuse and neglect.
• Performs return calls as necessary seeking additional intake information.
• Ensures clients are assisted promptly and courteously, and provided or referred for needed services.
• Provides information and training for schools, community providers, and other organizations regarding child abuse and abuse reporting laws.
• Participates in continuing education and/or training opportunities.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding children and family case information.
• Provides assistance to staff, Lead Worker, and Supervisor on an as needed basis.
• Completes redaction of records requests in child welfare as assigned.
• Comfortable with telephonic and in‑person communication, demonstrating superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortable navigating multiple electronic software programs.
• Prioritize tasks and navigate between different job responsibilities regularly.
• Exercise good judgment in approaching situations and making decisions.
• Prepare and maintain clear and accurate records and reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services field with at minimum one year work experience is acceptable.
• Ability and willingness to become Wisconsin Social Work certified per statute 457.08 (1) and/or 457.09(1) may be necessary during course of employment and is preferred.
• One to two years’ related work experience preferred.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and furnish proof of automobile insurance.
• Transporting and/or making appointments with clients is a requirement…