Social Worker - Adult Protection
Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.
We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.
Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.
Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience
Expected starting salary is $34.62 to $46.23. Full salary range is $34.62 to $57.83.
Bachelor's or Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.
Desirable Qualifications:
Two years of social service related experience.
Nature of Work
Under general supervision of a Program Manager and within state and locally developed programs and policies, the social worker provides Adult Protective Services including assessment, investigation, and intervention on reports of suspected adult maltreatment as well as other related duties. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.
Examples of Work
- Responds to reports of vulnerable adult maltreatment
- Provides immediate protective services when necessary
- Conducts interviews and makes home visits to identify strengths and needs of individuals or families
- Counsels individual clients to explore, identify, resolve, prevent or control problems
- Advises clients of possible resources, rights and responsibilities under programs or services
- Refers clients to other programs or agencies when appropriate
- Develops and writes individual service plans to address identified problems when needed
- Develops recommendations for court cases as appropriate
- Testifies in court proceedings as required
- Prepares correspondence reports and maintains case records in accordance with state, federal and local guidelines
- Educates the community on vulnerable adult maltreatment issues
- Works collaboratively with service providers, Law Enforcement and the County Attorney's Office
- Participates in team decision-making and community consultation meetings
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of the needs and problems of vulnerable adults
- Knowledge of the social sciences
- Knowledge of the principles of social work
- Knowledge of community resources
- Knowledge of motivating factors of human behavior
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practices
- Knowledge of therapeutic and strength-based approaches
- Knowledge of and sensitivity to victim issues and victim needs
- Knowledge of agency policies
- Knowledge of data practices and confidentiality
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Ability to develop recommendations for court cases
- Skilled in verbal communication, public speaking, writing and recording of information and data
- Skill in the use of computers and technology
- Skills in individual and community advocacy
- Skill in safety and risk assessment techniques
- Skill in applying methods and techniques used to conduct interviews and investigations
- Ability to understand individual and family needs with empathy and objectivity
- Ability to exercise good judgment in recommending possible solutions for individual and family needs and when utilizing conflict management and advocacy skills
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, co-workers, public officials and citizens of the community
- Ability to organize efficiently and keep records systematically
- Ability to work independently and to recognize when supervision is needed
- Ability to work with diverse populations
- Ability to serve as a liaison to community resources
- Ability to drive an automobile
Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.
