Social Service Worker

Social Services Worker - Help Your Community Thrive! Salary: Social Services Worker: $63,780.30 - $76,280.06 Annually Social Services Worker Senior PS/L: $72,673.12 - $87,139.52 Annually Plus bilingual allowance when applicable Locations: Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Barbara (future vacancies may also include Sheriff's Office & Public Defender's Office requiring county-wide availability). Make a difference in the lives of families and individuals in Santa Barbara County! We are seeking dedicated Social Services Workers to join our team in the Department of Social Services. Current vacancies are in Santa Maria and Lompoc, and we are also establishing lists for future vacancies in the Social Services Department, Sheriff's Office, and Public Defender's Office. Note: The Social Services Department may appoint qualified candidates at the Senior level based on experience and departmental need. Benefits: Generous County benefits package including retirement reciprocity and potential time/service credit for advanced vacation accrual (for eligible public sector applicants). Visit the Benefits Tab or SEIU Local 721 for details. About the Role: Under direction, Social Services Workers perform essential social work duties. Initially, you'll receive close supervision and training to learn departmental procedures, programs, and casework methods. Within one year, you'll be expected to perform independently, managing a complex caseload in areas such as: Child Protective Services Adult Protective Services In-Home Supportive Services Supplemental Security Income Advocacy Work within a locked facility (if assigned) For Public Defender Office positions: Work within the Community Defender Division (CDD) providing holistic support to clients involved in the criminal justice system, addressing housing, substance abuse, mental health, and other needs. Key Responsibilities: Conduct client interviews and home visits to assess needs. Investigate reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (protective services). Develop service and treatment plans and monitor client progress. Counsel clients on resources, employment barriers, and independent living skills. Assist clients in obtaining essential services (food, shelter, medical, etc.). Manage caseloads, document case files, prepare reports, and testify in court. Assess suitability for out-of-home care placements. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree with 30 semester/45 quarter units in social work, psychology, counseling, sociology, child development, geriatrics, or related behavioral/health sciences; OR Two years of experience equivalent to Eligibility Worker or Social Services Case Aide with Santa Barbara County + 30 semester/45 quarter units in a related field; OR Equivalent combination of training and experience + 30 semester/45 quarter units in a related field. Valid CA Class C Driver's License. Ability to work outside normal business hours and be on call. Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) may be required for some positions. Additional Requirements (Department of Social Services): Agreement to comply with child and dependent adult abuse reporting laws. Fingerprinting for criminal record clearance (Child Welfare Services). Knowledge and Abilities: Understanding of social service systems, human behavior, and socioeconomic factors. Ability to learn and apply complex regulations and policies. Strong interviewing, communication, and report-writing skills. Ability to manage caseloads, maintain confidentiality, and make sound judgments. Computer proficiency. Selection Process: Application and supplemental questionnaire review. Online Spelling and Grammar Assessment. Supplemental Questionnaire Ranking. Potential background check, medical evaluation, and polygraph (Sheriff's Office/Public Defender's Office). Veterans Preference: Available with proper documentation. Reasonable Accommodations: Provided for qualified individuals with disabilities. Join a team dedicated to building a stronger, more equitable community! Apply today!