The posting
Job Description
This job announcement is a courtesy job post for the Chesapeake County local Social Services agency. It is not a position of the Virginia Department of Social Services or any other Commonwealth of Virginia agency. Local employment opportunities may also be available through the local agency’s city or county website/job board(s).https://jobs.cityofchesapeake.net/postings/17330
Position Summary:
As a Family Services Specialist III, you will provide advanced case management and may supervise staff in the delivery of critical human services. You’ll support families through complex situations by providing assessments, planning, crisis intervention, and direct services. This role is ideal for professionals who are skilled in navigating challenging dynamics with empathy, accountability, and professionalism.
Key Responsibilities Include: Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies involving child/adult protective services and foster care Conduct investigations, screen referrals for validity, and assess both immediate and long-term risks to children Develop service plans with clearly documented goals, objectives, and tailored interventions Transport children to and from placements, medical appointments, therapy sessions, court, and family visitation Prepare and testify in court, coordinate cases with attorneys, and accompany clients to court appearances Interview all involved parties, establish and maintain collateral contacts, and gather comprehensive information for case assessments Provide program oversight, caseload management, and support to families throughout the service process File petitions, prepare home studies, and conduct court-ordered home and custody assessments Collaborate with community partners, attend professional workshops, and maintain accurate case records and documentation
What You Bring: Experience in family services, child welfare, or human services programs Strong decision-making, crisis management, and communication skills Knowledge of social work principles, trauma-informed care, and legal processes Ability to work independently within a supportive team environment Flexibility to work after hours when needed to meet urgent service demands
Why Join Us?
Be part of a purpose-driven team focused on preserving families and protecting children Work in a supportive environment that values collaboration, professional development, and well-being Make a difference—every day, every case, every child
Help us shape brighter futures by supporting families when they need it most.
The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits. Please browse our Benefits Brochure for a full list of benefits and employee perks. Required Qualifications VOCATIONAL/EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT: In order to be evaluated for vacancies in the Family Services Specialist job series, applicants shall possess the qualifications outlined in (1) OR (2) below:
1) A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the human services field, including Social Work, Rehabilitation Counseling, Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Counseling and Guidance, Counselor Education, Human Services, Sociology, Family and Child Development, Aging Studies, Gerontology, Criminal Justice with a minor in one of the above studies, or other related degrees determined by the Department of Human Resources based on the similarity of the curriculum and course content.
2) A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in any field accompanied by a minimum of two years of appropriate and related, full-time equivalent experience in a human services related area. To be considered for promotion, persons currently employed in the Family Services Specialist job series by a local department prior to January 1, 1999, who do not meet the qualifications outlined in either (1) or (2) above, must possess four years of appropriate and related experience in a human services area and must have successfully completed all available competency-based training related to the promotional area.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT: In addition to satisfying the vocational/education standards, this class requires a minimum of four years of appropriate and related, full-time equivalent experience.
SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES: Requires a valid driver’s license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Emergency Duty (On-Call) participation is required to comply with mandated responsibilities as listed under Section 63.2-1503,B; Section 63.2-900; and 63.2-1604-63.2-1610, Code of Virginia. Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term departmental needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Preferred Qualifications Transports children to placements, meetings, therapy sessions, doctor and dental appointments, and for visitation with families; Attends court, testifies in court and coordinates cases with attorneys; Provides parent education and support for families in target population; Conducts intensive in-home counseling; prepares reports to referral sources regarding status of various interventions; Interviews and assesses clients and assigns to appropriate groups; Informs clients of service programs and the rules and regulations, and right to participate; Conducts overall monitoring of programs in specific area of responsibility; Serves as resource to clients and the community in area of expertise; Provides after hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care; Performs investigative duties to include screens referrals for validity
