Part-Time Social Worker

The purpose of this position is to provide professional social work services to individuals, families, older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers within the Town of Fairfield. The Social Worker will conduct assessments, provide case management and crisis intervention, connect clients to local and state resources, and promote client well-being, independence, and self-sufficiency. The Social Worker will also plan and facilitate group programs to address client needs, build community support, and enhance access to services.

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment.)

• Conduct intake assessments to determine client needs, eligibility, and available supports.
• Provide case management, including service planning, follow-up, and client advocacy.
• Offer short-term supportive counseling and crisis intervention when appropriate.
• Plan, coordinate, and facilitate support groups, psychoeducational groups, and skill-building workshops for residents.
• Assist clients in navigating state and federal systems (e.g., Social Security, DSS, DOL, DOH).
• Administer financial assistance programs, including emergency aid and seasonal supports (e.g., energy assistance, holiday programs).
• Make referrals to community-based providers, including medical, behavioral health, and crisis resources.
• Conduct home visits as needed to ensure equitable access to services.
• Collaborate with town departments, local agencies, and community partners to coordinate care and strengthen service delivery.
• Respond to outreach referrals from Police, Fire, and other municipal departments.
• Act as a mandated reporter to the State of Connecticut for suspected abuse or neglect of children under 18 and adults over 60.
• Maintain accurate case records and documentation to ensure continuity of services, accountability, and data collection.
• Uphold confidentiality, professional boundaries, and ethical standards of social work practice.
• Participate in departmental meetings, professional trainings, and community initiatives as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Ability, and Skill:

• Knowledge of social work principles, case management practices, and available community resources.
• Knowledge of state and federal assistance programs and eligibility requirements.
• Strong skills in client advocacy, crisis intervention, short-term counseling, and group facilitation.
• Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate group programs tailored to community needs.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional ethics in accordance with state law and NASW standards.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, colleagues, service providers, and other municipal departments.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including documentation and reporting.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases and priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and case management systems.

Education, Training, and Experience:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related field
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) with a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of an MSW.
• Prior experience in direct social services, case management, or human services preferred.
• Experience in group facilitation strongly preferred.

Special Requirements:

• Valid Connecticut driver’s license required.
• Ability to travel within the community for home visits or outreach.

Supervision:

Scope:    Performs professional social work duties requiring independent judgment, initiative, and adherence to established policies and professional standards.

Received:   Works under the general direction of the Social Services Coordinator.

Given:   May supervise interns or volunteers as assigned.

Job Environment:

• Work performed in a municipal office setting with frequent interactions with clients, community agencies, and town departments.
• Some work conducted in the community, including client homes and partner agency offices.
• Frequent interruptions from clients and service providers requiring flexibility and prioritization.
• Operation of standard office equipment including telephone, computer, copier, and scanner.
• Access to confidential information such as client files, case records, and personal data.
• Errors in judgment or failure to maintain confidentiality could result in legal liability, loss of services, and adverse impact on clients.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

Physical Activity:

• Regular periods of sitting, talking, and hearing.
• Frequent standing, walking, and use of hands/fingers to handle and enter data.
• Occasional bending, reaching, and driving to community sites.
• Must be able to occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment:

• Work primarily in office environment with occasional exposure to client homes and community sites.
• Generally quiet to moderate noise levels.

Vision Requirements:

• Ability to read documents, data, and computer screens.
• Ability to observe and assess clients in individual and group settings.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

The Town of Fairfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants and prohibit unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, age, marital status, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or physical and mental disability.