Adult Protective Services - Social Worker

Job Description:

Adult Protective Services - Social Worker

Description

What You'll Be Doing

Wake County Social Services Senior and Adult Services division provides a wide range of home and community-based programs to support seniors, adults with disabilities, and their families. Our mission is to maximize self-sufficiency, safety, health, and independence so that individuals can remain in the community as long as possible and enjoy the highest quality of life. We also ensure quality care and oversight for adults who reside in adult and family care homes in Wake County.

Senior & Adult Services offers placement and case management services, monitors adult care homes and day care programs, and provides protective services for disabled adults who may be abused, neglected, or exploited. The program also serves individuals who have been legally adjudicated incompetent and who have no one else to assume decision-making responsibility.

The APS Social Worker is responsible for investigating allegations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of disabled adults (age 18 and older, or emancipated at 16). This role determines eligibility for APS intervention during screening and referral intake and develops protective service plans to prevent further mistreatment and safeguard the well-being of vulnerable adults.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct assessments of reported abuse, neglect, or exploitation cases and determine APS eligibility.
• Develop and implement individualized protective service plans to ensure client safety.
• Provide case management for APS clients, including referrals to appropriate community resources.
• Manage APS Intake and Referral coverage as needed, including completing intake reports.
• Prepare and maintain all required state, county, and court documentation in a timely and accurate manner.
• Collaborate with the County Attorney’s Office to file legal motions or orders when necessary.
• Testify in court proceedings related to APS cases.
• Complete all required and recommended training.
• Participate in a rotational schedule to provid e after-hours intake coverage with other Social Workers.

About Our Team

The Wake County Department of Social Services team is grounded in a deep commitment to connection, compassion, and community. We bring together experienced professionals who collaborate to support individuals and families through complex challenges, connect them with critical resources, and promote long-term stability. We value insight, innovation, and a solutions-focused approach, and we welcome those who are ready to contribute their expertise to meaningful, community-centered work. Join us in making a lasting difference!

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field
• Two years of job-related experience
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Master's degree in Social Sciences and at least 1 year of field experience working with elderly and/or adults with IDD, mental illness and substance abuse
• BS Degree in Social Sciences and three (3) years’ experience working with elderly and/or adults with IDD, mental illness and/or substance abuse

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

• You'll make thoughtful and confident decisions
• You'll own your work with accountability
• Stay adaptable in a changing environment
• Act with integrity in all situations
• Collaborate and thrive in a team setting
• Build positive interpersonal relationships
• Manage conflict with professionalism
• You'll solve problems with creativity and focus
• Write clear, well-structured reports
• Communicate effectively with others
• Deliver excellent customer service

About This Position

Location: HSC Swinburne Raleigh, NC 27610

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday -8:00 am- 5:00 pm

Hiring Range: 29.60 - 39.96

Market Range: 29.60 - 50.33

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 8/25/2025

What Makes Wake Great

Home to the State Capital, Wake County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation and the most populous county in the state, with more than 1.1 million residents. The County has received national and international rankings and accolades from publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time magazines as being one of the best places to live, work and play. The central location of the County allows for a short drive to the spectacular mountains or coast. Wake County Government is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve two-year terms. Wake County Government has a general operating budget of $1.874 billion, employs over 4400 employees, experiences minimal turnover, and is an award-winning leader in wellness and technology initiatives; such as offering employees and covered spouses free access to the Employee Health Center. Wake County Government offers a wide range of training and development opportunities, a stable career in public service with a balance of work and family life, flexible work schedules and a competitive salary and benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check Statement

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.

Salary:

29.60 - 39.96