Social Worker IV

This is the proficiency level IV classification in the Social Worker series. The work involves the application of social work techniques to the practical and emotional needs of patients. Incumbents in this job classification perform social services for inmates, clients, or patients of state hospitals, clinics, and institutions, or other settings, both medical and psychiatric. The work also includes routine and standard services for patients and patients' families. Emphasis of work is on the independent performance of case management and casework services and assisting or consulting other professionals with evaluating and coordinating treatment plans in complex cases. Incumbents may participate in staff and administrative planning. General professional supervision is received from a social worker in a higher classification or from an administrative official.
Examples of Work:

Examples of work performed in this classification include, but are not limited to, the following:

Prepares social history of patient after consultation with the patient, relatives, school, employers, physicians, and social agencies.

Interviews clients individually, in families, or in groups, assessing their situations, psychosocial needs, medical history, capabilities, and problems, to determine which services are required to meet their needs.

Collects supplementary information needed to assist clients, such as employment records, medical records, or school reports, etc.

Collaborates with other professionals (e.g., counselors, physicians, or nurses) to evaluate the mental or physical condition of clients or patients, and to coordinate individualized treatment plans.

Provides regular contact with clients and offenders and family members of clients/offenders.

Monitors, evaluates, and records clients' progress with respect to treatment goals.

Modifies treatment plans according to status of patients.

Maintains case history records and prepares reports.

Monitors and evaluates provider records for compliance with federal, state, and program guidelines.

Serves as a liaison between facilities, individuals, families, and agencies that are part of the grant or waiver program.

Informs clients of recommendations for discharge options, identifies referrals, completes discharge applications, and arranges discharge interviews.

Refers clients to community resources for services such as job placement, debt counseling, legal aid, housing, medical treatment, or financial assistance, and provides concrete information, such as where to go and how to apply.

Performs related or similar duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

These minimum qualifications have been agreed upon by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in this job class and are based upon a job analysis and the essential functions. However, if a candidate believes he/she is qualified for the job although he/she does not have the minimum qualifications set forth below, he/she may request special consideration through substitution of related education and experience, demonstrating the ability to perform the essential functions of the position. Any request to substitute related education or experience for minimum qualifications must be addressed to the Mississippi State Personnel Board in writing, identifying the related education and experience which demonstrates the candidate's ability to perform all essential functions of the position.

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Education/Licensure:

Must be licensed to practice Master's level social work (LMSW or above) in the State of Mississippi;

AND

Experience:

Three (3) years of experience related to the described duties;

OR

Education/Licensure:

Must be licensed to practice Bachelor's level social work (LSW) in the State of Mississippi;

AND

Experience:

Four (4) years of experience related to the described duties.

Documentation Required:

Applicants must attach a valid copy of his/her current social worker license.

Essential Functions:

Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring agency. The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Conducts admission interviews to assess clients individually, in families, or in groups.
2. Prepares social histories to determine which services are required to meet patients' needs.
3. Collaborates with other professionals to coordinate clients' treatment plans.
4. Monitors, evaluates, and records clients' progress regarding treatment goals.
5. Counsels patients/clients/family members concerning the adjustment to treatment plans and/or daily routine.
6. Conducts discharge interviews and prepares discharge reports.