Differential Response Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Differential Response Specialist Job Description

Compensation: $20-$24 per hour; benefits for employees working over 30 hours per week; grant-funded temporary position.

General Job Statement:

Differential Response Specialists (DRS) will engage with individuals and families in the community to address concerns of child safety and well-being. The position focuses on early intervention and family support through collaboration with service providers, community partners, and individuals in need. Specialists will assess family needs, provide resources, and implement tailored interventions to strengthen family units and promote stability.

Examples of Duties:

• Conduct intake and assessment interviews with families referred through child welfare services or other community organizations.

• Explain program policies, procedures, and participant rights to families.

• Develop and implement individualized service plans based on family needs.

• Provide case management services, including referrals to social services, health providers, and other resources.

• Engage in crisis intervention to support families in achieving safety and self-sufficiency.

• Collaborate with local service providers, educational institutions, and community organizations to coordinate services for families.

• Monitor family progress and compliance with service plans; provide ongoing support as necessary.

• Prepare accurate and timely reports, case documentation, and statistical data for program evaluation.

• Facilitate workshops, education programs, and family support groups as needed.

• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with all applicable policies and regulations.

• Attend meetings, trainings, and community events to enhance professional development and program outreach.

• Perform general administrative tasks, including data entry, preparing correspondence, and maintaining organized records.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Sixty (60) semester units of college, including fifteen (15) semester units in social welfare, social/human services, sociology, or other social or behavioral sciences; OR
• A combination of education and experience equivalent to two (2) years of full-time social service work, including a minimum of fifteen (15) semester units in social or behavioral sciences.

Experience:

• Two (2) years of full-time experience providing social services in public or private settings to disadvantaged adults or children; OR
• A combination of education and experience equivalent to the above, where fifteen (15) semester units equal six months of experience.

Examples of Applicable Coursework: Anthropology, criminal justice, economics, education, ethnic studies, history, human development, law, nursing, nutrition, philosophy, political science, psychology, public health, religion, social welfare, sociology, women’s studies.

Ability to:

• Conduct effective interviews and assess family needs.

• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized service plans.

• Demonstrate empathy, sensitivity, and professionalism with diverse populations.

• Handle crisis situations calmly and effectively.

• Collaborate with team members and community partners.

• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.

• Use modern office technology and systems, including case management software.

License or Certifications:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license.

Working Conditions:

• Mobility: Frequent use of office equipment and sitting for extended periods; occasional standing, walking, and driving.

• Lifting: Frequently up to 5 lbs.; occasionally up to 30 lbs.

• Visual: Constant use of vision for reading and data entry.

• Emotional/Physiological: Frequent decision-making and concentration; occasional public interaction.

• Special Requirements: May require occasional work on weekends, evenings, or overtime; travel as necessary.

• Location: desk and field work required.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to work in standard office settings and operate office equipment.

• Capability to perform occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 30 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Verifiable good driving record and reliable transportation.

• Background check and fingerprinting required.

• Bilingual/bicultural proficiency (e.g., Spanish) is strongly encouraged.

• Experience providing social services, public assistance, counseling, or case management.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent, in combination with required coursework or experience.

Apply today to make a difference!

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Learn more about us:
www.tricountiescap.org

Company Description

Learn more about us:\nwww.tricountiescap.org