Job Description

FAMILY ASSESSMENT WORKER

(Healthy Families)

Pay Range $13.20 to $19.58

Full-Time

Must have the physical, developmental and mental ability to perform job tasks, work efforts, responsibilities and duties of the job illustrated below:

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

Responsible for reviewing all referrals of prospective participants to determine eligibility for Healthy Families.  Referral sources may include but are not limited to the following: medical facilities, community agencies, families, or potential participants.  Conducts interviews and completes assessments with pregnant women or parents shortly after the birth of their child.  Provides referrals for families in need of extra supportive services.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES

Conducts psycho-social needs screens and assessments through a one to one interview process with all appropriate families during the prenatal or postpartum period. May meet with individuals or families in a variety of locations including but not limited to the following:  Private homes, hospitals, clinics, community agencies, etc. Thoroughly documents interviews on appropriate forms.  Determines eligibility for program based on assessment information.  Meets with supervisor weekly to review assessment information and appropriateness of referral for services of Healthy Families.  Final determination to be made by supervisor based on availability of staff and need for services. May be required to complete Healthy Start Screens and review for program eligibility. Serves as an advocate for participants and potential participants as required by linking and/or referring families to appropriate community resources.  Plans and provides short-term direct assistance if required with the supervisor’s approval.  Provides bonding facilitation if possible. Maintains tracking forms, required statistical information, data forms, and other paperwork as required, in a detailed and timely manner. With the supervisor, collaborates with community partners to maintain an effective referral base. Participates in team activities as required.  Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

• Evidence of knowledge and ability to use proper channels of communication. 
• Demonstrates a willingness to work with culturally diverse populations that are among the target population.
• The ability to establish trusting relationships and accept individual differences.
• Knowledge of infant and child development and the dynamics of child abuse and neglect. 
• Ability to use good judgment and make independent decisions with clear and professional boundaries.
• Ability to learn and follow department policies and procedures. 
• Ability to follow proper universal precautions and infection control techniques per policy. 
• Responsible for maintaining a professional and safe department and work area in line with established Safety Policies and the image desired for the organization. 
• Maintains and demonstrates current knowledge and operational techniques on all pieces of equipment utilized by the position. 
• Ability to use assessment tools. 
• Ability to become familiar with community resources and utilize such resources to meet participant needs. 
• Ability to satisfactorily conduct interviews and document assessment. 
• Responsible for attending required meetings, required in-services, conferences, etc.
• Must possess good interpersonal skills. 
• Must have the ability to relate to participants in a non-judgmental manner while maintaining cultural sensitivity. 
• Ability to display a positive guest relations attitude. 
• Ability to deal tactfully with participants, co-workers, community agencies and the general public. 
• Ability to work harmoniously within Healthy Families Polk, with professional and non-professional employees within and outside the organization. 
• Ability to work well as part of a team and be able to function independently when needed. 
• Ability to read, write, and understand the English language. 
• Ability to provide transportation for a participant as appropriate utilizing a county vehicle.
• May be required to lift, move, and/or maneuver equipment and supplies. 
• May be exposed to safety hazards, contaminations, and infectious diseases including HIV and Hepatitis virus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate of an accredited four (4) year college/university with major course work in a Human Services related field; or an Associate’s of Art degree with major course work in a Human

Services related field plus two (2) years experience working with families; or certification as a Child Development Associate (CDA) plus three (3) years experience working with families; or graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma and have four (4) years experience working in a home visiting program.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license at the time of employment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicant is required to complete a Level 2 background screening (FBI check) prior to employment.  Applicant must also sign the Healthy Families Florida Standards of Confidentiality and Information Sharing Form, the Affidavit of Understanding form, The Department of Children and Families (DCF) Security Agreement form and the Affidavit of Good Moral Character form.

Applicant must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the program participants. Must have a telephone at the time of employment as employee is subject to be called.

The Healthy Families Division is responsible for assisting in the Emergency Management Operations for Polk County in the event of an emergency such as a hurricane.  The Healthy Families Division staff may be called upon to staff special needs shelters or assist with arranging transportation.

This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.

SPECIAL PREFERENCES

Bilingual abilities preferred.