Bilingual Human Services Specialist II - Jail Services

Location
Alexandria, VA
Salary
$54,680.86 - $73,246.68 Annually
Posted
Sep 13, 2023
Closes
Oct 18, 2023
Ref
2023-00268
Hours
Full Time
Bilingual Human Services Specialist II - Jail Services

Position Overview:

Are you searching for a position with purpose where you will share your excellent people skills? Are you hoping to find a position that challenges you? Do you need a position where your language skills are utilized and appreciated? Are you passionate about helping those with mental health or substance use disorders? Are you looking for an employer that surrounds you with professionals dedicated to supporting you with your ongoing professional development? If so, the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) is hiring for the position of Human Services Specialist II. This position requires an individual to have extensive knowledge of diagnostic assessments and treatments modalities of the severely mentally ill and those with substance use disorders. A successful candidate can develop and maintain a rapport with internal and external stakeholders including other professional staff members and community agencies. The Human Services Specialist II is responsible for continuity of information flow and consumer care from shift to shift. This individual must have effective communication skills in both verbal and written capacities (English/Spanish). Work is performed independently but is under the direct supervision of the Clinical Team Leader.

Examples of Duties:
  • Develops and implements treatment plans and case management services for incarcerated individuals in the Alexandria Detention Center (ADC);
  • Provides CSB intake evaluations to inmates;
  • Conducts individual and group counseling or psychotherapy for problems related to psychiatric/emotional, and substance use for incarcerated adults;
  • Coordinates services with associated agencies, including the Court Services Unit, Probation and Parole (local, state, federal), Public Defender’s Office, the Commonwealth Attorney. State of Virginia psychiatric hospitals, shelters, and housing providers, other DCHS departments, and relevant community programs;
  • Provides consultations to ADC staff and with other agencies;
  • Maintains client records consistent with applicable state and departmental standards;
  • Coordinates services with other agencies and the criminal justice system maintaining communication with community resources relating to client treatment, progress, and discharge planning;
  • Create and maintain various written reports;
  • Attends periodic staff meetings discussing procedural and administrative developments and cases;
  • Attends applicable trainings, conferences, and workshops provided by the department or other agencies and organizations;
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for:

We know that you want to work in an environment that fosters a sense of purpose, is professional, and where your talents and experience are valued. To provide this environment, we need to ensure that our employees have the necessary skills and abilities to be successful. To be the ideal candidate for this position, it is important that you have a thorough knowledge of and experience in the following subject areas:
  • Knowledge of social, economic, health, and behavioral problems, in accordance with DBHDS requirements for Same Day Access of the assigned service population (e.g., mental health, substance use disorders, intellectual disability services).
  • Knowledge of the role that the police, courts, and the criminal justice system have regarding commitment procedures and the constitutional rights of the disabled.
  • Ability to identify social problems and needs, and to assess clients' and/or their family's ability to use available services.
  • Ability to apply casework philosophy; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, co-workers, social agencies, and the public.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain complete and accurate records.

Who we are:

The Center for Adult Services (CAS) within the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), provides programs and services seniors and persons with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorders. You will work alongside professionals dedicated to creating an environment of compassion and effective person-centered care based on best practices. Our clinicians support self-determination, safety, and recovery for Alexandria residents affected by abuse, neglect, mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorders. We believe in a professional environment that fosters lifelong learning and opportunities for your personal and professional growth. We are a community of dedicated clinicians who collaborate, challenge, and support each other to advance our clinical knowledge and skills and help our clients achieve the best outcomes.

What we offer you:

In addition to an awesome group of people to work with, the City of Alexandria offers great benefits!

As a full-time employee, of the City of Alexandria, the following benefits are available to you:
  • Health Insurance
  • Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
  • Long Term Disability Insurance (excluding sworn personnel)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Annual and Sick Leave/Sick Leave Bank
  • Paid City Holidays
  • Spring Health mental health program
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Tuition Assistance and Professional Development
  • Employee Transportation Benefits Program
  • Virginia Retirement System

The Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) is also a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. Use the following link to access the PSLF website and learn about this program in detail: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service .

Minimum & Additional Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social services, public health, guidance, or a related field; three years of experience in the provision of mental health and/or substance abuse treatment services, including some experience at the level of Caseworker; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Employees must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of their residence.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Psychology or related field with interest in obtaining clinical licensure.

Bilingual (English and Spanish) skills. At least one year of experience working with confined populations; Experience performing individual/group therapy and targeted case management with MH/SA populations.

Notes

This position requires the successful completion of pre-employment background checks including but not limited to: FBI/Federal Records Check; VA State Child Abuse/Neglect Registry; Medicare/Medicaid Fraud Database; education/certifications; and driver’s license.

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM

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