Social Worker I, Adult and Disability Services Division, Human Services Department

Salary

Hiring Rate: $33.95/hour, Grade 19, Non-Exempt, AFSCME Human Services

Stearns County Mission: Provide Exceptional Public Services to Assure a Safe, Healthy, Vibrant County for All.
Stearns County Values: Professional | Approachable | Responsive | Collaborative | Fair & Equitable

Stearns County is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, public assistance status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation.

It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

Hiring Range for Experienced County Social Workers: $33.95 - $40.53/hourly

Stearns County derives strength from the diversity of its workforce and provides a welcoming environment where all are respected and valued. We are seeking an individual that is looking to grow their skillset and join a team that finds meaning and purpose in our work. This challenging and rewarding position offers you the opportunity to use your lived experiences, cultural competencies, and experience collaborating with diverse populations to make a difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities in Stearns County. If you are driven by a desire to be a part of a solution-focused and fast paced team environment, this is your opportunity to make a difference through a rewarding career in public service and enjoy the excellent quality of life in Central Minnesota.
  
County employees are provided a comprehensive benefit package, contributions to a Pension Plan, and generous time off. Refer to our Benefits Overview. We support ongoing professional development, and Social Workers can grow their careers through our structured career ladder program.
  
Position Objective

To provide assessment and/or case management services by identifying needs and developing case plans for individuals and families.
  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities 
These examples do not include all possible responsibilities in this position and do not limit the assignment of related duties to this classification.
  
1. Completes assessments of individual and family strengths and needs to develop, implement, and maintain service plans.
2. Maintains complete, accurate, and up-to-date client records to effectively document case activity and support case decisions.
3. Coordinates and plans for emergency situations and placements outside the home as needed.
4. Assesses and refers individuals, families, and possibly children to appropriate community services.
5. Drafts materials for referral and review by the County Attorney's Office; testifies in court as necessary.
6. Conducts client visits at locations including but not limited to homes and offices.
7. Coordinates and collaborates within the department and with community service providers.
8. Advocates for client needs and resources within department framework.
9. Monitors client progress toward established service goals, short term or ongoing.
10. Represents the unit or division in committee assignments and interactions with community groups for service provision and program planning.
11. Attends work regularly and in a timely manner.
12. Performs other duties as assigned or appropriate

 

Minimum Qualifications for all positions:
In order to be considered for this position, applicants must possess the following:

• A bachelor's degree or higher in social work, psychology, sociology, nursing, special education, human services or closely related field.
• One year of progressively related experience involving the well-being of others such as in a community-based organization, educational setting, healthcare, or other human services related organization OR Completion of a County Social Work Internship.
• A valid Minnesota Driver's License or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.
• Have reliable means of transportation and be able to travel to multiple locations around Stearns County, some of which may not be accessible by public transportation.

 

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
1. Knowledge of social service programs and operations.
2. Knowledge of laws and ethics pertaining to data privacy.
3. Knowledge of socio-economic factors that promote stable living.
4. Knowledge of the courts system.
5. Ability to utilize effective interviewing techniques.
6. Ability to analyze complex situations and evaluate potential for improvement.
7. Ability to organize and prioritize a high-volume workload in an efficient manner.
8. Ability to work independently and follow directions and guidelines.
9. Ability to seek out resources and information.
10. Ability to establish and maintain accurate records.
11. Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.

Accountabilities Shared by all Employees
1. Consistently performs job responsibilities with a positive attitude and in a manner consistent with the County’s mission and values.
2. Develops and maintains a respectful and collaborative professional relationship with all County employees and the public we serve.
3. Values and respects the diversity each employee brings to the organization.
4. Develops and maintains knowledge and understanding of all department and County-wide policies, protocols and procedures that apply to the performance of this position.
5. Complies with all rules and policies to maintain a safe work environment.

Work Environment and Physical Demands
The primary responsibilities for this position will be performed approximately 100% of the time indoors. Requires moderate travel to off-site locations and minimal attendance at evening meetings. Will have infrequent exposure to health hazards and accidents; requires a low level of physical effort. All employees are required to reside within the state of Minnesota.
  
Extent of Supervision or Guidance Provided
Work is performed under the general supervision of the Human Services Supervisor.
  
Responsibility for Public Contact
Frequent.
  
Supervision of Others
None.

Hours of Work
Normal work hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; may include some hours outside of normal work hours on occasion. Potential for a hybrid work environment and flexible work hours.
  
Interview Date
If you are selected to be interviewed for this position, interviews will be held on October 30, 2026. Invitations to interview will be sent to the email address listed on the job application and will be based upon an assessment of education and experience.

Benefits

To view Stearns County benefits go to: Stearns County Benefits Page

If you require special accommodations to participate in the Stearns County hiring process, please contact us at 320-656-3606.