Berkshire Regional Planning Commission’s (BRPC) Public Health program seeks a full-time, off-site Community Social Worker to improve community health and health equity, assist in a broad range of public health initiatives, and contribute to dynamic and complex public health projects to improve health outcomes in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.
BRPC’s Public Health Program is looking for an experienced social worker to join the Berkshire Public Health Alliance (BPHA) team and help us make a difference in the lives of those we serve. The Community Social Worker will work with Boards of Health, Councils on Aging, and community groups that have knowledge of individuals who need additional assistance, as well as organizations that are involved in improving the lives of community members. The Community Social Worker will also provide limited direct services to individuals, families, and groups in need, advocate for them, and connect them to ongoing support services and resources. This may involve conducting assessments, developing preliminary service plans, and providing crisis intervention on a short-term basis. The Community Social Worker may also lead groups in the community.
BRPC and BPHA seek someone with 2-8 years of professional experience in social work, community organizing, community outreach, or a related field. A Massachusetts social worker with LCSW, LICSW, or eligibility for a license is strongly preferred. A LMHC with the appropriate education and experience will be considered. Exceptional candidates with LSW, LSWA, or eligibility and at least 8 years of relevant experience may be considered. Being bilingual in Spanish is a significant plus. Additional language abilities, including Portuguese, Creole, or French, are a benefit. The successful candidate must be able to work independently, set priorities, manage workflows, be familiar with community social work, and be interested in growing a new position. Additionally, they will have a deep commitment to social justice and a passion for helping others.
The Community Social Worker must have access to a vehicle and the ability to travel throughout Berkshire County at all times of the year to attend meetings, events, and trainings, as well as meet with residents and support Boards of Health in identifying health service needs in the county.
BRPC staff currently have flexible work schedules at the discretion of their supervisor. The expectation is that core work hours will be covered every workday unless otherwise arranged. An off-site flexible schedule does not mean this is a remote position, as our Social Worker must live within easy commuting distance and be actively engaged in local activities and events in Berkshire County. Full-time staff must work a minimum of 35 hours per week with occasional night and weekend meetings and activities as required.
In addition to traditional social work activities, this position will provide staff support for planning and assistance with a wide range of significant public health projects that may include, but are not limited to:
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Tobacco Control
- Public Health Nursing and Inspectional Services, including hoarding and other housing issues.
- Other Public Health Projects, i.e., Harm Reduction, Prevention, Age and Dementia Friendly, Community Health Improvement Planning, Environmental and Climate Change Planning, Rural Health Equity, and Public Health Emergency Preparedness.
As of December 7, 2023, the starting salary range is $33.90-$39.45 per hour, depending on education and experience, with an attractive benefits package for full-time staff. Cost of living and merit raises are generally available in July each year. BRPC may not alter the posted salary range unless the position is re-reposted. BRPC is a drug and smoke free workplace, does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, age, or gender and actively seeks diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its hiring.
To apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to info@berkshireplanning.org. Include the phrase “Community Social Worker” in the subject line of your e-mail.
No telephone calls. The position is available immediately and open until filled. EOE/Smoke- and Drug-free Workplace.
This job post: HERE.
Full position description: HERE.