Employment Opportunity

Social Worker (BSW) 

Job Description:

VIA Visually Impaired Advancement is seeking a full time Social Worker to work 37.5 hours per week.

Under the direction of the Manager of Vision Rehabilitation Services, this position is primarily responsible for conducting intake to qualified individuals for the Adaptive Living Program (ALP) in person and over the telephone to establish the Individualized Service Plans (ISP) for short-term Vision Rehabilitation Services in accordance with VIA and NYSCB guidelines.

Essential Functions:

• Possess a strong knowledge and understanding of both internal and external resources for achieving established goals.
• Respond to inquiries regarding VIA programs and services in person, on the phone or via email.
• Assess the needs of the client, establish goals and lesson plans for achievement.
• Document progress/outcomes and complete all reporting within established VIA and NYSCB contractual guidelines.
• Provide basic vision adjustment counseling and community linkages.
• Review all client information provided in NYSCB database and/or in VIA electronic file.
• Obtain/retain/maintain accurate electronic client files. 
• Maintain all electronic data and documentation in accordance with established guidelines. 
• Demonstrate empathy by listening and understanding the needs of the client.
• Prepare paperwork and lesson plans in order to achieve identified goals and needs.
• Complete and submit applications for benefits and community services as needed for direct intake clients and assist LCSW/LMSW in completion and submission of applications for their clients, providing research assistance on linkages as necessary.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of community resources.
• Refer for continued care when appropriate either to LCSW/LMSW for short-term vision psychotherapy (SCW2) at VIA or to long-term community provider.
• Works closely with LCSWs/LMSWs; provides assistance and support as needed.
• When applicable, provide continuous and regular visits to meet identified goals and achieve successful outcomes.
• Complete all reporting and data entry to both internal and external databases in accordance with established guidelines, including case closure in timely manner.
• Work as part of the team in order to achieve NYSCB contractual outcomes.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with clients, teachers, parents, VIA and NYSCB staff to ensure successful outcomes.
• Act as Mandatory Reporter if necessary and complete annual on-line training certification.

Competencies:

• Exceptional interpersonal communication, presentation and writing abilities
• Demonstrated ability to provide exceptional internal and external customer service
• Caring and counseling skills with an ability to balance agency policy with the individual perceptions and sensitivity of clients
• Effectively work with individuals of diverse backgrounds
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in a fast paced environment
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task
• Possess an in-depth knowledge of community resources and the social services process
• Energetic, flexible, patient and detail-oriented individual
• Possess the ability to think independently, problem solve and execute assigned tasks
• MS Office: Word, Excel, Outlook and Internet along with general applications
• NYS driver’s license and reliable transportation OR the ability to travel effectively within assigned geographic area required
• Excellent understanding of the impact of disability on a person’s psycho/social functioning

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s in Social Work required
• One-3 years’ experience in the Social Work field preferred