General Description POSTING TYPE: Open Competitive DEPARTMENT: Social Services HOURS: Full-time PREFERRED HIRING RANGE: $67,643 - $76,099/year (Grade 108) FULL SALARY RANGE: $67,643 - $105,693/year LOCATION: Hybrid; telework and in person at the Northern Service Center, West St. Paul UNION: AFSCME Local 306 CLOSE DATE: 4:30 p.m. on 10/30/2024 Come and join the over 2,000 skilled individuals whose talents and contributions make Dakota County a premier place to live and work. The work that county government does is unique, and Dakota County offers important careers the kind of careers that make a difference in people's lives. Dakota County welcomes and is inclusive of diverse people, backgrounds, and perspectives. Dakota County aims to reflect the community and clients it serves and to foster an equitable and respectful working environment where everyone is empowered to be their authentic selves. The Adult Protection Social Worker (Initial Assessment and Case Management) will perform functions related to eligibility, assessments and/or case management for persons who have a disability and are seeking home and community-based services or are at risk for placement in a nursing/hospital/intermediate care facility who are open to Adult Protective Services. This position is for a MnCHOICES Certified Assessor. This individual will perform functions related to eligibility for Individuals with disabilities, Developmental Disabilities, and/or aging, using the MnCHOICES tool. This position will work with populations who meet the statutory definition of a Vulnerable Adult per Minnesota Statute (MS 626.5572, subd.21), including: Those Ages 18 and older who would benefit from PCA services and/or supports through the Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI), Community Alternative Care (CAC), Brain Injury (BI) waivers, Elderly Waiver (EW) or Alternative Care (AC) programs. Duties & Responsibilities These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks in any position of this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required for all positions. Effectively engages individuals/families to assess needs, strengths, and family dynamics, to evaluate level of safety and/or risk. Engages in-person with individuals with disabilities or functional limitations, initially and/or within scope of eligibility determination. Identifies Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) and additional supports/services which may benefit persons being served, provides information and/or referrals to other Community Services departments or community agencies, and collaborates effectively with all stakeholders. Develops and implements an individual community support and service plan per relevant policies, procedures, statutes, and professional practice using person-centered planning. Completes federal, state, and agency required documentation for all persons assessed, and upon transfer/closure of services. Assesses and monitors persons being served for progress toward goals through required contacts, service plan adjustments and coordination of services with various service providers. Responds effectively in crises situations. Provides coordination of crisis management, develops and implements a safety plan for persons served to maximize safety and minimize community risk. Engages and collaborates with medical/behavioral health providers law enforcement, court, and adult protection. Attends regular and periodic meetings and trainings consistent with the role and participates on work teams as requested. Other duties as assigned, such as supporting community emergency response functions per county emergency response plan. Demonstrates a commitment to support cultural diversity County wide, actively supports the County's inclusion, diversity, and equity initiatives, and works to address the needs of diverse and underserved communities. Essential Function : Duties 1-11. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities and Work Environment Knowledge of human development, mental health and co-morbidity, cultural influences, family dynamics/systems and counseling/education concepts. Knowledge of complex service systems ranging from health care delivery system, medical insurance, and home and community-based services. Knowledge of medical diagnosis, medications, and basic medical terminology. Knowledge of statutes, rules, policies, and professional practices pertaining to specific discipline. Able to effectively use, learn and integrate various software applications/programs into practice. Ability to connect persons with community resources and funding sources. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to work independently and prioritize responsibilities. Ability to gather information and solve problems effectively. Ability to engage with, listen to, and interact with persons (being served and co-workers) effectively. Demonstrates an understanding of and respect for the diversity of customers, co-workers, and supervisors, including individuals with a disability or whose first language may be other than English. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in a Dakota County office building and on visits to client's homes. Travel is required. Lifting requirement of up to 20 pounds on an occasional basis. Exposure to hazardous physical conditions such as environmental conditions of unsanitary homes and property, unsafe neighborhoods, challenging and potentially violent and unpredictable clients and family members, pets, and animals; Exposure to hazardous physical conditions such as mechanical parts, electrical currents and vibration; atmospheric conditions such as fumes, odors, dusts, gases and poor ventilation; hazardous materials such as chemicals, blood, and other body fluids; inadequate lighting; work space restricting movement; and intense noise may occur on visits to client's homes. SELECTION PROCESS: The examination/selection process for this classification will consist of a rating of your training and experience from the application materials submitted. The top scoring candidates will be forwarded to the hiring department for further consideration. Qualified candidates must pass a criminal history background check and may be required to pass a pre-employment drug test.