Ohio Innocence Project, Client Support Specialist

Current UC employees must apply internally via SuccessFactors > http://bit.ly/UCEMPL

 

Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati ranks among the nation’s best urban public research universities. Home to more than 50,000 students, 11,000 faculty and staff and 340,000 alumni, UC combines a Top 35 public research university with a physical setting The New York Times calls “the most ambitious campus design program in the country.”

 

With the launch of Next Lives Here, the Cincinnati Innovation District, a $100 million JobsOhio investment, nine straight years of record enrollment, worldwide leadership in cooperative education, a dynamic academic health center and entry into the Big 12 Conference, UC’s momentum has never been stronger. UC’s annual budget tops $1.65 billion and its endowment totals $1.8 billion. The University’s overall regional economic impact exceeds $10.6 billion, paving the way for the future of Cincinnati.

Job Overview

Provide direct social work and case management services to freed Ohio Innocence Project (OIP) clients.

Essential Functions

• Meet with recently freed clients to assess needs, build rapport, and develop short- and long-term goals specific to economic, emotional, and physical stability.
• Facilitate necessary preparations for client release, including but not limited to provision and delivery of clothing, housing, vital documents, food, transportation, cell phone, and any other necessary goods and services.
• Facilitate necessary payment for immediate and subsequent client-post release needs, goods and services. 
• Work closely with OIP’s clinical director to provide post-release services, develop individualized service and case management plan, and make referrals to agencies and other providers of health care, psychological care, counseling, educational and employment services as needed.
• Develop client-focused initiatives and activities to help OIP clients successfully transition back into society.
• Ensure comprehensive client needs assessment for mental health, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, and medical needs.
• Hold regular meetings and check-ins with clients and conduct follow-up as appropriate.
• Work closely with OIP’s director of policy and engagement on client-centered education and development programs.
• Establish and maintain consistent and thorough case files, and document findings in client records.
• Develop effective working relationships with external partners including other re-entry organizations, community mental health providers, and other service providers.
• Organize client-focused gatherings or events as appropriate.
• Work closely with OIP’s clinical director to design, implement and support clients’ involvement at the national innocence network’s annual conference.
• Work flexible work hours and some evenings and weekends.
• Perform related duties based on departmental need. This job description can be changed at any time.

Minimum Requirements

Required Education

Master's Degree in Social Work or related field

Bachelor's required, but 5 or more years of relevant work experience and/or other specialized training can be used in lieu of Mater's requirement.

Required Trainings/Certifications

Valid driver’s license with an acceptable record

Required Experience

• Three (3) years of experience in clinical counseling and working with social services, procuring public benefits, and/or enrollment in entitlement programs
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate
• Strong active listening skills and the ability to negotiate positive outcomes
• Strong organizational skills, including a well-developed attention to detail and follow through
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects at a time, work well under pressure, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Creative problem-solving skills

Additional Qualifications Considered

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker or Licensed Clinical Counselor
• Experience working with formerly incarcerated population, their support networks, and community-based organizations in supporting re-entry

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Office environment/no specific unusual physical or environmental demands.

Compensation and Benefits

UC offers a wide array of complementary and affordable benefit options, to meet the financial, educational, health, and wellness needs of you and your family. Eligibility varies by position and FTE.

• Competitive salary range dependent on the candidate's experience.
• Comprehensive insurance plans including medical, dental, vision,