Social Worker I (Social Work Assistant)

We all face challenges and transitions in our lives, and when we do, we must be able to count on the strength of community for support. For the people of Los Angeles, Jewish Family Service LA (JFSLA) is that trusted source of support. We are a comprehensive network of services that welcomes individuals and families of all ages and identities to our full spectrum of care. Our highly trained staff and volunteers work closely with individuals and their loved ones to problem-solve and guide them on their paths to safety, security, wellness, and fulfillment. 

JFSLA staff share in our mission and work towards our goals with the highest level of responsibility, professionalism, and integrity. JFS demonstrates our commitment to our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and a nurturing environment.

JFSLA is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness.  In recruiting for our team, we seek the unique contributions that individuals can bring from all backgrounds. We strive for a diverse team in order to better serve our clients and ensure our excellence as an organization in identifying, designing and delivering solutions.

Be part of our commitment and join our family. For more information on our philosophy and services, please tour our website www.jfsla.org 

The Social Worker I is a non-caseload carrying Social Work Assistant position responsible for assisting Case Managers by responding to and providing basic information and referrals to clients via phone or in-person.  The position is also responsible for assisting the On-Duty Social Worker of the day with applications for government benefits, applications for eligible grants, applications for affordable housing, and research on available services or information clients may need to access the community's social, psychological, medical, and economic resources.  The position also triages clients each day to a referral module for On-Duty Social Workers for those who will be enrolled in need of further concrete services and advocacy or targeted case management services.   QUALIFICATIONS:          

• BA degree in social work or a related health or service-related field.
• Current unrestricted CA Driver’s License and proof of auto insurance.
• Prior experience with client engagement, customer service, or social service interventions preferred. 
• Ability to target and navigate needed resources for aging population preferred. 
• Bilingual in Russian is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written and ability to utilize telehealth platforms.
• Must be computer literate in MS Office applications.
• Culturally sensitive and able to work with a multicultural client/customer population; ability to work in a non-judgmental manner and foster positive outcomes; able to work as part of a team and maintain professional boundaries.
• Must pass a criminal background check (Live Scan fingerprinting) prior to beginning employment.

 RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Review call center and referral module each day to be sure clients are responded to and triage to appropriate next steps including scheduling with On-Duty Social Worker for further services
• Respond to daily intake calls or walk-ins to gather initial client-identified needs, gather demographic information, and provide information and referrals
• Manage pipeline of intake calls and waitlist for targeted case management through consistent review in electronic health record  
• Work collaboratively with activity and nutrition staff to provide outreach efforts for those clients perceived to be in need of further concrete services or targeted case management enrollment 
• Assist social workers with clients enrolled in concrete services and advocacy by researching resource options to meet unique client needs; completing public benefits applications with clients; completing available grant-based applications with clients and providing linkage with community resources
• Provide excellent, timely, and responsive customer service 
• Manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively 
• Provide timely documentation in keeping with funding requirements and electronic health records
• Participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings as scheduled
• Participate in weekly individual supervisory meetings 
• Other related duties as assigned

Jewish Family Service is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran. This position reports to:  Director, Jona Goldrich Multipurpose Senior Center

 
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