Director of Social Services

Job Summary:

The Director of Social Services plans, develops, organizes, implements, evaluates, and directs the Social Services Department to ensure residents’ medically related emotional and social needs are identified and addressed. This role provides leadership for social services staff, coordinates resident and family support, discharge planning, care planning, community resources, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance while promoting resident rights, dignity, and person-centered care.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Resident & Family Social Services / Care Coordination – 40%

• Assess residents’ psychosocial, emotional, and social needs and develop individualized social service plans.
• Interview residents and families in a private setting and involve them in establishing goals and objectives.
• Provide counseling, support, referrals, and appropriate community resources.
• Provide information regarding Medicare, Medicaid, financial assistance programs, and available community services.
• Assist residents and families during challenging, emotional, or crisis situations.
• Participate in resident assessments, care planning, discharge planning, and interdisciplinary meetings.
• Develop and maintain written social service plans addressing identified needs, goals, and interventions.
• Report suspected abuse or neglect immediately in accordance with organizational requirements.

2. Department Leadership, Staffing & Operations – 30%

• Direct and oversee the daily operations of the Social Services Department.
• Recruit, interview, supervise, train, and support Social Services personnel.
• Conduct departmental rounds to ensure appropriate and timely services are being provided.
• Coordinate Social Services activities with other departments to support comprehensive resident care.
• Maintain productive relationships with department leaders, medical professionals, residents, families, and community partners.
• Assist with preparation and management of the department budget.
• Maintain appropriate departmental records, reports, schedules, and documentation.

3. Quality Assurance, Regulatory & Community Relations – 15%

• Develop, implement, and maintain an ongoing quality assurance program for Social Services.
• Monitor compliance with applicable federal and state regulations, professional standards, and organizational policies.
• Participate in governmental surveys and inspections.
• Review deficiencies and develop corrective action plans as necessary.
• Recommend changes to policies, procedures, and programs based on regulatory or operational needs.
• Review clinical documentation to support continuity and implementation of resident care plans.
• Maintain relationships with community agencies, healthcare providers, and other organizations.
• Participate in community planning related to resident and family needs and establish appropriate referral resources.

4. Compliance & Training – 10%

• Follow HIPAA privacy regulations to maintain confidentiality for residents and staff.
• Attend all mandatory in-services, meetings, and training sessions.
• Provide exceptional customer service through compassionate and empathetic care to residents and families.

5. Other Duties as Assigned – 5%

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Previous experience in healthcare social work, with a proven track record of leadership and program management.
• Licensure/Certification: Current licensure as a Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of employment.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team. Compassionate, empathetic, and able to handle emotionally challenging situations. Knowledge of community resources, healthcare systems, and healthcare regulations.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks and physical activities, such as bending and reaching.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.