Director of Social Services

Position: Director of Social Services (DSS)

Job Summary:

The Director of Social Services is responsible for overseeing the social services department to ensure residents' emotional, psychological, and social needs are met. This role includes assessing residents' social needs, coordinating services, advocating for residents' rights, and fostering a supportive environment for residents and their families.

Key Responsibilities:

1. 
   

   Resident Care and Support:

   
   
   
   
   • Conduct psychosocial assessments for residents upon admission, quarterly, and as needed.
   
   
   • Develop, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team.
   
   
   • Provide counseling and support to residents and families regarding adjustment to long-term care, grief, and other life changes.
   
   
   
   


2. 
   

   Coordination of Services:

   
   
   
   
   • Facilitate communication between residents, families, and facility staff.
   
   
   • Coordinate discharge planning and assist residents in transitioning back to the community or to other care facilities.
   
   
   • Liaise with community resources and services to support residents' needs.
   
   
   
   


3. 
   

   Compliance and Documentation:

   
   
   
   
   • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with state and federal regulations.
   
   
   • Ensure compliance with Medicare, Medicaid, and other regulatory requirements.
   
   
   • Participate in survey readiness activities and address deficiencies in the social services department.
   
   
   
   


4. 
   

   Leadership and Training:

   
   
   
   
   • Supervise and train social services staff, ensuring high standards of care and professionalism.
   
   
   • Lead family meetings and interdisciplinary care plan meetings.
   
   
   • Develop and implement policies and procedures for the social services department.
   
   
   
   


5. 
   

   Advocacy and Rights:

   
   
   
   
   • Advocate for residents' rights and ensure their needs and preferences are prioritized.
   
   
   • Handle grievances and resolve conflicts involving residents or families.
   
   
   
   

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) or related field required; Master’s degree (MSW) preferred.


• Current licensure or certification as required by New Jersey state regulations.


• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in social work, preferably in a healthcare or long-term care setting.


• Strong knowledge of federal and state regulations regarding skilled nursing facilities, including OBRA requirements.


• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.


• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including residents, families, and staff.