Access Worker - Intake & Assessment Unit

This full-time case position will be the primary access/intake worker for the Children and Families Unit. Access is a process for receiving, analyzing, and documenting reports of alleged child abuse or neglect. Access/Intake workers must gather sufficient information for decision making related to child safety. Access/Intake then creates an encompassing report/referral in the appropriate database so a supervisor can accurately determine what, if any, action the Department should take in the matter. Access/Intake workers must possess the ability to provide input regarding screening, urgency, and response time decisions based upon threats to child safety. Access/Intake workers must possess strong interview skills to engage reporters and the ability to accurately and timely document the information received.  Duties include being the primary Access/Intake worker Monday-Friday, writing detailed reports, assessing information as it comes to the Department to determine both present and impending danger.

The Intake/Access worker is the gateway for services for all social work programs, so it is critical that the individual has the expertise and skills to gather all pertinent information a client/referent has and has the ability to verbalize and write a thorough report on the subject matter.  The worker must also possess excellent interview and customer service skills, be able to operate calmly in stressful situations, multi-task and work well independently and in a team-based environment.  This position is on-site.

• Annual wage increase based on eligibility
• Paid, on-the-job training and advancement opportunities
• 85% county contribution to health and dental premiums
• Health Savings Account (HSA) available to all employees enrolled in the county's medical plan, with annual contributions provided by the employer and the health plan
• Wisconsin Retirement- One of the most well managed retirement systems in the nation- Contributions are paid according to current year rates set by WRS Employee Trust Fund.  Refer to www.etf.wi.gov for further detail  
• County-paid Life Insurance Policy – coverage equivalent to annual salary - affordable Supplemental, Additional, and Spousal/Dependent coverage available at employee’s expense
• Competitive paid time off including vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer 

• Provide Access Intake services. Receive and document primarily child abuse/neglect reports, but may also receive mental health and adult protection referrals and forward to the appropriate staff member.  Provide information and resources to those contacting the Department. Conduct initial interviews in order to determine the nature of access or service need and what unit or department is best able to assist the consumer.
• Documents all casework in accordance with Federal and State laws and mandates and in accordance with County policies and procedures on all referrals related to child abuse and neglect.
• Performs return calls as necessary seeking additional intake information.

• Ensures clients are assisted promptly and courteously, and provided or referred for needed services.
• Provides information and training for schools, community providers, and other organizations regarding child abuse and abuse reporting laws.
• Participates in continuing education and/or training opportunities. 
• Maintains confidentiality regarding children and family case information.

• Provides assistance to staff, Lead Worker, and Supervisor on an as needed basis.
• Completes redaction of records requests in child welfare as assigned. 

• Comfortable with telephonic and in-person communication, demonstrating superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortable navigating multiple electronic software programs.
• Prioritize tasks and navigate between different job responsibilities regularly.
• Exercise good judgment in approaching situations and making decisions.
• Prepare and maintain clear and accurate records and reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work preferred. 
• Bachelor’s degree in human services field with at minimum one year work experience is acceptable. 
• Ability and willingness to become Wisconsin Social Work certified per statue  457.08 (1) and/or 457.09(1) may be necessary during course of employment and is preferred. 
• One to two years’ related work experience preferred.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and furnish proof of automobile insurance. 
• Transporting and/or making appointments with clients is a requirement of this position. 

Financial aptitude, computer knowledge, strong oral and written communication skills, and comfortability in presenting to management groups, public groups, and various committees needed. Must be able to deal with a variety of people in all aspects of this work.
 
Applicants: Please attach college transcripts, college diploma or other proof of college credentials when submitting your online application.

• Working knowledge of social and economic factors which influence family life. 
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques and problem solving methodology. 
• Working knowledge of social casework objectives, principles, methods, and caseload management and organization. 
• Knowledge of how to access area resources.
• Interview effectively, gather information and engage the client in the problem-solving process.  
• Understand and explain agency limitations, regulations and policies. 
• Maintain current and accurate records. 
• Proficiency in use of computer and designated software programs and/or to obtain proficiency within 6 months of assuming the position.
• Communicates clearly and effectively, verbally in writing and during public speaking, ensures understanding, and conveys information accurately. 
• Collaborates and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, clients, providers, and staff of other agencies. 
• Contributes to group efforts, and fosters a cooperative and supportive work environment to achieve common goals. 
• Takes responsibility for actions and decisions, follows through on commitments, and ensures tasks are completed accurately and on time. 

• Takes proactive steps to address opportunities and challenges, shows a strong drive to achieve results, and goes above and beyond. 
• Makes informed and timely decisions, evaluates options thoroughly, and takes responsibility for outcomes. 
• Demonstrates a strong desire to achieve goals, seeks continuous improvement, and strives for excellence in all endeavors. 

• Identifies and addresses conflicts promptly, mediates disputes, and fosters a collaborative environment. 

• Demonstrates a strong awareness of safety protocols, promotes a safe work environment, and ensures compliance with safety regulations. 
• Shows tolerance for different perspectives, remains patient and open-minded, and fosters an inclusive environment. 

This job operates in a professional office environment.  This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. This role works frequently in varying environments including private residences, schools, or medical facilities, and may utilize a personal vehicle to transport clients.

Testing may be administered to assess skills and abilities necessary to perform the essential duties of this position.  Structured interview, references and background investigation.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 

The access worker will be required to perform non-sedentary and sedentary work. Non-sedentary work includes walking distances on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs; standing and sitting variable times; carrying a laptop computer and other materials simultaneously; and ability to lift up to 30 pounds. May require field visits, sometimes in buildings or terrain that is not handicapped accessible. Requirements include driving a vehicle to and from appointments. Must maintain a valid driver's license.