Position Overview:
The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and professional Correctional Social Worker to join our team at a maximum security male correctional facility in Romulus. This role provides critical support to incarcerated individuals, assisting them with personal, emotional, and rehabilitative needs. The Correctional Social Worker will work in a challenging and dynamic environment, addressing mental health concerns, facilitating treatment plans, and supporting successful reentry into society.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assessment and Counseling: Provide comprehensive psychological and social assessments to incarcerated individuals, addressing emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs.
- Treatment Plans: Develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with facility healthcare teams, addressing mental health, substance abuse, and emotional well-being.
- Crisis Intervention: Offer crisis intervention services, de-escalating potential conflicts and providing support during times of distress.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Design and facilitate rehabilitative programs aimed at reducing recidivism, fostering personal growth, and preparing individuals for reintegration into society.
- Case Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of inmates’ progress, providing case management services and reporting on rehabilitation efforts.
- Collaboration: Work closely with correctional officers, medical staff, counselors, and other professionals to ensure the well-being and progress of individuals in custody.
- Advocacy: Act as an advocate for inmates, ensuring that their legal and personal rights are respected while encouraging positive behavioral changes.
- Mental Health Services: Refer inmates to appropriate mental health professionals when necessary and coordinate care with mental health teams.
- Training & Support: Participate in professional development opportunities and contribute to staff training to enhance the overall environment of care.
Qualifications:
- Education: Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) or a related field from an accredited program.
- Licensing: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York State.
- Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in social work or counseling, with experience in a correctional or institutional setting preferred.
- Skills:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Crisis management and de-escalation techniques.
- Knowledge of the criminal justice system and rehabilitative strategies.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Physical and Environmental Requirements:
- Must be able to work in a secure, high-stress environment, handling challenging situations and maintaining professionalism.
- Occasional physical activity required, including walking and standing for extended periods.
Benefits:
- Competitive annual salary of $87,360.
- Comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Disability coverage.