What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Worker position at Lutheran Social Services Of The Nat?
About the Role
Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) is hiring a compassionate and driven Social Worker to support youth in the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor (URM) Program. You’ll be the bridge between past trauma and future opportunity—providing case management and support to youth placed in foster care who have arrived in the U.S. without parents or guardians.
What You’ll Do (A Day in the Life):
Meet with youth (face-to-face and virtually) at least twice a month to assess needs and provide ongoing case support
Coordinate with foster parents, schools, courts, health providers, and legal teams to support each youth’s well-being
Prepare and maintain accurate case records, including treatment plans, court reports, and monthly updates
Refer youth and foster families to community resources (housing, legal aid, medical, education, etc.)
Attend hearings and collaborate with Guardians ad Litem and Assistant Attorneys General
Arrange and follow up on medical, psychological, and educational assessments
Participate in the on-call rotation and travel within a 50-mile radius of Fairfax, VA
Qualifications
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field (e.g., psychology, sociology, special education, counseling)
At least 1–2 years of experience in providing casework services to children and families
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Valid driver’s license, personal transportation, and vehicle insurance
Ability to pass background checks in VA, MD, and DC
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and youth-focused services
Preferred:
Master’s degree in Social Work or related field
Experience in family or trauma-informed therapy
Knowledge of the U.S. Refugee Resettlement program
Spanish-speaking a plus
Skills & Tools
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
Data entry and case tracking systems
Time management and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting
Why Join Us?
Make a direct impact in the lives of refugee youth
Work in a mission-driven, culturally diverse environment
Be part of a supportive, flexible, and collaborative team
Opportunities for growth in child welfare and refugee services
Apply today and help change lives.
LSSNCA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or protected veteran status.