Human Services Associate (Family Services) - Non-Merit

Posting number: NM.142 08-2026

Department: HHS/FAMILY SERVICE

Job classification: NON-MERIT POSITION

Posting type: Open

Categories: Health Services, Legal, Professional, Human Services, Counseling, Criminology, Communications, Community and Social Services

Summary

Regular Schedule: 34 hours per week

A Non-Merit vacancy exists in the Department of Health and Human Services, Family Services. 

Non-Merit positions are not classified within the Baltimore County Government Classification and Compensation Plan.

A list of eligible applicants will be established based on the examination as outlined below.

Current and future vacancies occurring in this classification may be filled from the list of eligible applicants.

All interested candidates must apply at this time. 

List all promotions and changes in job duties due to reclassification as separate work experience on your application. Applicants must include the dates of the promotions and reclassifications.

Note:  Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered.  A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for a position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.

You MUST attach your transcript(s) or license(s) to your application.

Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application.

Examples of duties

Definition of Responsibility

The Human Services Associate/Child Welfare Advocate provides needs assessment and advocacy support for children and families facing intensive mental health challenges, behavioral issues, or trauma from sexual or physical abuse. Include participation in multi-disciplinary case reviews to plan associated support services and discuss the unique needs of the child and family. Requires regular and ongoing collaboration with numerous partners, including the Bureau of Behavioral Health, Department of Juvenile Services (DJS), Baltimore County Public Schools and other education systems, local hospitals, and Social Services Administration (SSA) representatives. 

• Interviews children and families; identifies, assesses, and evaluates strengths and needs, family functioning, and receptiveness to services. 

• Composes and compiles safety plans for services and evaluative reports; makes referrals and linkages to programs as needed.

• Provides customer service to both internal and external customers that meets or exceeds the standards set by the Department of Social Services. 

• Provides counseling and crisis intervention services for individuals and families to assist the child and family in achieving the goals set in their action plan.

• Completes assigned work as outlined in a clear and consistent manner, including summarizing service documentation, court petitions, and case documentation.

• Maintains case records, case plans, and other required documentation in accordance with COMAR and local program policies and guidelines.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in a social or behavioral science. 

(Experience as described in essential duties may be substituted on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of four years for the required education.)
 

• Knowledge of the theories and principles of human behavior, growth and development, mental illness, alcohol and drug abuse, and problems related to socioeconomic factors.

• Knowledge of modern individual, group, and family counseling techniques, diagnostic assessment, and basic treatment planning.

• Basic knowledge of de-escalation techniques.

• Strong clinical and communication skills, the ability to work independently, and the capacity to manage a complex workload, with data entry and tracking requirements.

• Ability to conduct individual diagnostic/assessment interviews and to formulate a basic treatment plan.

• Ability to make appropriate referrals.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with others.

• Ability to appropriately handle hostile individuals and those experiencing a crisis.

• Ability to understand the rules and procedures of the courts and criminal justice system.