Licensed Social Workers (Berks County Youth Center)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Shelter Care Licensed Social Worker is a management-confidential position responsible for coordinating efforts between Concern Counseling Services, Prime Care Medical, the youth in care, and Berks County Youth Center (BCYC) staff. The position supports youth by providing services related to the youth's social/emotional and behavioral needs. The role requires managing crisis situations, overseeing communication between family and youth, coordinating services with external agencies such as the Juvenile Probation Office (JPO) and Children and Youth Services (CYS), and creating programming aimed at fostering a calm and therapeutic environment.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions

The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to: 

• Coordination & Communication
• Serve as the primary liaison between Concern counseling agency, Prime Care Medical, youth, and BCYC staff.
• Facilitate communication and coordination with external agencies, including JPO, CYS, and any other service providers involved in the youth's care.
• Communicate regularly with families, supporting the potential reunification process when applicable.
• Crisis Management & Response
• Take the lead in managing crisis situations by directing staff and implementing response protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of youth and staff.
• Develop and oversee crisis intervention strategies and procedures, while maintaining a calm environment for youth in care.
• Program Development
• Design and implement programming and activities that promote a supportive and structured environment, encouraging social, emotional, and developmental growth.
• Identify opportunities for therapeutic activities and interventions that align with trauma-informed care principles.
• Teach and train trauma education and awareness to staff and youth.  Creating a trauma-informed learning environment (social/emotional skills and wellness).
• Case Management
• Coordinate and document services provided to each youth, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Collaboration & Leadership
• Lead shelter care staff in coordinating services and care for youth, providing guidance and direction in day-to-day operations.
• Ensure that the shelter care facility maintains a safe, positive environment for youth and staff by promoting best practices in youth care and crisis intervention.
• Attend monthly meetings with stakeholders.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in social work is required
• Pennsylvania Social Work License required.
• Certification in Trauma Informed Care.
• Experience working with youth in a residential or shelter care setting, with knowledge of trauma-informed care.
• Strong crisis management skills and the ability to remain calm and focused in high-pressure situations.
• Experience coordinating with external agencies such as JPO and CYS.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with youth, families, service providers, and multidisciplinary teams.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of PA 3800 Regulations and the program’s SOP (Standard Operating Procedure).
• Working knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment used in a residential facility.
• Working knowledge of the social and cultural factors that result in institutionalization and the attitudes and group habits of juveniles in a residential placement.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and general use of computers.
• Ability to interact well with juveniles in normal and emotionally charged situations in a controlled professional manner. 
• Ability to keep simple records, prepare progress reports, and perform related clerical tasks.
• Must be 21 years of age.
• Must pass a physical and drug screen.
• Must complete and maintain the following: PA Child Abuse Clearance, PA S