FORT BEND COUNTY DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC DEFENDER JOB TITLE: CASEWORKER Fort Bend County is ranked as one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. We have capitalized on not only the creed of our location, but on the "quality of life" for our families to call home. Our employees are the key to our success and the heartbeat of our foundation. The diversity and inclusivity of our community is our strength and at the forefront of a workplace environment welcoming to all. Live Here! Work Here!

JOB SUMMARY: Determines applicant's eligibility for a variety for social services available and/or provides other social services related to crisis intervention and short-term case management. Participates in planning of programs, policies or objectives for own work group and department.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES: Interviews clients, collects and completes required eligibility documentation, determines eligibility for social services assistance and monitors client progress and usage of assistance. Refers clients to clinical, other social service, education and/or health agencies as needed. May make home visits on an as needed basis for clients unable to come to the service site. Conducts Jail visits. Provides basic needs counseling and problem-solving assistance or case management services for clients. Conducts the assessment of client needs; develops casework/service plans, monitors progress and follow-up. Provides social services related to crisis intervention. Coordinates with other service agencies, organizations, and vendors to provide appropriate services and information for clients as well as referrals. Services as an advocate on behalf of client. Interprets eligibility requirements, policy, and procedure to clients, other agencies, vendors, and government entities. Assists clients with appointments to probation, doctors or housing. Assists with hospital admission when necessary. Participates in activities and duties related to emergency management during a local state of disaster as directed by appropriate county managers.

REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma/GED; (Bachelors Degree with major coursework in Social Work or related field preferred.) Two years of experience in social services related work. Strong computer, management, supervisory and organizational skills. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to deal effectively with clients, the public, other employees and elected officials. Good written and verbal communication skills. Ability to complete assignments within tight deadlines and under high-pressure circumstances. Knowledge of policies, practices, procedures and terminology of assigned functions. Skilled in counseling and providing crisis and other assistance to clients and assessing the medical, psychosocial and environmental status of clients. Valid Drivers License and reliable transportation for jail visits.

Bilingual preferred.

SALARY RANGE: $19.71 - $24.63 hourly based on qualifications.

All full-time and part-time employees are members of the Texas County District Retirement System (TCDRS). Full-time employees also enjoy a wide-range of great benefits. Fort Bend County is an equal opportunity employer, committed to non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, religion or creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy status (including childbirth and related medical conditions), national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, age (40 and over), physical or mental disability, genetic information, protected military and veteran status, political affiliation or beliefs, or any other classification protected by state, federal and local laws, unless such classification is a bona fide occupational qualification.

Fort Bend County is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities. FBC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and all other applicable fed ral, state and local laws regarding disability discrimination and accommodation.