Crisis Caseworker

** All candidates must formally apply online via jobs.albanyny.gov yo be considered for this position. **

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a professional level position within the Albany Police Department that will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide specialized assistance to individuals in crisis. Caseworkers will play a crucial role in supporting and stabilizing community members, ensuring that they receive appropriate care and resources. This position will work with police officers and community partners to provide case management services to support victims and families dealing with violence, homicides, mental health, family issues, domestic violence, homelessness, and other related crises.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative Only)

• Responsible for providing in person crisis intervention services;
• Assess clients’ physical and mental wellness, needs, preferences and abilities;
• Advocate for clients by assessing their need for referral to community services and initiate on behalf of the department;
• Refer and coordinate required medical, clinical or other community services including substance abuse treatment, housing assistance, food assistance, educational and vocational opportunities, employment, day care, transportation and other related services;
• Assist clients with application for services and programs as needed;
• Provide testimony at court hearings as required;
• Establish, maintain, and enhance professional and cooperative working relationships with City officials and local service and program providers including but not limited to local treatment agencies, social service agencies, hospitals and schools;
• Advocate for the needs of clients to City and community resource officials;
• Follow up with discharged clients to ensure they are satisfied with services received and are in good physical and mental health;
• Participate in public outreach, community initiatives, strategic planning and consulting educational campaigns on the needs of those experiencing a crisis;
• Handle confidential information in accordance with HIPAA, state and federal confidentiality requirements;
• Maintain up-to-date case files and client records;
• Complete all necessary file notes, reports and other written documentation on a timely basis;
• Performs related work as required.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

• Knowledge of community resources and referral agencies and their functions;
• Knowledge of basic intervention methods and techniques;
• Ability to communicate effectively with others orally and in writing;
• Ability to relate to and communicate with diverse populations and groups using social perceptiveness and empathy;
• Ability to distinguish between legal and referral advice;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion and judgment in dealing with sensitive issues;
• Ability to assess clients interactions between peers, family, and community members;
• Ability to work in partnership with law enforcement;
• Ability to report, document and deliver anticipated services according to community protocols and procedures;
• Working knowledge of the criminal justice process;
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or Equivalent,

PLUS:

A. Master’s Degree (or higher) in Counseling, Human Services, Sociology or Social Work or other closely related field; OR

B. Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Counseling, Human Services, Sociology or Social Work or other closely related field; PLUS two (2) years’ experience in case management, crisis intervention, or direct service to vulnerable population. OR

C. Associate’s Degree (or higher) in Counseling, Human Services, Sociology or Social Work or other closely related field; PLUS four (4) years’ experience in case management, crisis intervention, or direct service to vulnerable population. OR

D. Six (6) years’ experience as described above.

NOTE: Possession of a valid NYS Driver’s License is required at the time of appointment and for the duration of employment. Position may be required to work various shifts including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Work may be conducted in various settings, including client homes, community centers, and police facilities.

** All candidates must formally apply online via jobs.albanyny.gov yo be considered for this position. **

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $51,560.00 - $73,840.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• Social work: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Albany, NY 12207 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Albany, NY 12207: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $51,560 - $73,840