Social Worker | Nursing Home

Social Worker

Salary: $65,000 - $70,000 Per Year

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Disability Insurance

• 401K

• Holiday Pay

• Paid Time Off

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Social Services Worker is responsible for identifying the medically related social and emotional needs of residents and ensuring those needs are met. This role involves direct interaction with residents and families to assist with adjustment to the facility, ongoing counseling, and comprehensive discharge planning. This position reports to the Social Services Director.

Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

• Direct Support: Provides counseling and support services for residents and families to assist with the social and emotional aspects of long-term care.

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings to ensure social service goals are integrated into the resident’s total plan of care.

• Resident Advocacy: Works directly with residents and families experiencing personal or environmental difficulties related to the resident’s physical or emotional condition.

• Quality of Life: Assists residents in maintaining or improving their ability to manage everyday physical and psychosocial needs, including coping abilities and a sense of identity.

• Documentation: Maintains accurate, timely written records of all social service consultations and services provided in the medical record.

• Assessments: Performs initial and periodic evaluations of each resident’s social needs, documenting goals and interventions in the resident’s care plan.

• Data Collection: Collects pertinent social and family history data upon admission to help staff understand the resident’s unique background and needs.

• Care Planning: Coordinates and participates in care plan conferences, inviting family members and residents as appropriate.

• Liaison Services: Acts as a link between residents, families, and outside community agencies to ensure resident rights are protected.

• Admissions Support: Assists with the admission process and provides tours or information to prospective families as needed.

• Discharge Planning: Coordinates the discharge process, including arranging for community resources, home health equipment, and follow-up services to ensure a safe transition.

• Safety & Compliance: Adheres to all facility policies regarding safety, fire, and sanitation codes; remains familiar with disaster plans and Resident Rights.

• Environment of Care: Ensures residents receive services in a compassionate atmosphere that recognizes their individual dignity.

Specific Educational / Vocational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a human services field (Sociology, Psychology, Special Education, or Rehabilitation Counseling).

• Compliance with all New Jersey State Regulations and certification requirements for nursing home social services staff.

Job Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal and empathetic listening skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication for medical charting and family meetings.

• Knowledge of long-term care regulations (Medicare/Medicaid) and community resources.

• Ability to problem-solve resident concerns effectively.

• Annual verification of a negative TB skin test.

Performs Related Duties:

• Interacts professionally with residents, families, visitors, and coworkers.

• Carries out other tasks as requested by the Social Services Director or Administrator where hands-on assistance is required.