Case Worker

Job Description

Job Description

The Case Worker is responsible for providing comprehensive social work services to residents of Ventura Housing, with a focus on individuals and families experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or co-occurring substance use disorders. This position plays a key role in supporting resident stability, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being through assessment, intervention, and coordination of community resources.

Working in a resident- and family-centered environment, the Case Worker performs social work assessments to evaluate the physical, mental, and social well-being of residents. These assessments may occur through in-home visits, interviews, or community outreach. Based on the findings, the Case Worker develops individualized care plans that identify client needs and outline specific goals and services to address them. The role involves ongoing collaboration with a variety of professionals-including caregivers, physicians, mental health providers, social service agencies, and law enforcement-to coordinate services and monitor progress.

Case Workers are expected to maintain a balance between fieldwork and administrative responsibilities. They provide direct assistance and advocacy to residents, helping them navigate social service systems and access essential resources such as healthcare, housing, financial assistance, and legal support. The position also requires the ability to deliver crisis intervention, short-term counseling, and mental health case management for residents experiencing acute distress. In all interactions, the Case Worker is expected to apply trauma-informed practices, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction principles to ensure compassionate and ethical service delivery.

At the Valentine Road Apartments, the Case Worker will primarily serve homeless individuals with serious mental illness or co-occurring substance use disorders. The focus of this assignment is to connect clients with resources that promote stability in their housing, mental health, and primary care. The Case Worker assists clients in addressing immediate needs such as shelter placement, food, and safety, while helping them develop long-term housing and income plans. Services may include placement in emergency or short-term housing through Coordinated Entry, accompanied by comprehensive case management and goal-oriented planning. The Case Worker maintains responsibility for the client relationship until housing is secured, care is transferred, or the individual chooses to discontinue services.

Strong documentation and organizational skills are essential. The Case Worker is responsible for maintaining accurate and timely case records, reports, and data entry in compliance with program requirements and the Homelessness Management Information System. Regular participation in staff meetings, client reviews, and community consortiums is required to ensure effective service coordination. The position also involves fostering strong relationships with community partners and representing Ventura Housing in a professional and positive manner.

Candidates must have at least a high school diploma, though a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field is preferred. A master's degree in social work is highly desirable. Applicants should have two to four years of experience in social work, particularly in serving low-income or homeless populations affected by mental illness. Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish-both written and verbal-is preferred. Candidates must possess a valid California driver's license, an acceptable driving record, and proof of current automobile insurance, as frequent local travel is required.

The position involves a mix of office and field work, with moderate noise levels and regular use of computers and other technology. Case Workers may occasionally lift or carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds and must be able to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods. The work schedule will be determined based on operational needs and will be either Monday through Thursday or Tuesday through Friday, from 7 : 00 a.m. to 5 : 30 p.m.

This is a non-supervisory position that offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable residents. The Case Worker will contribute to Ventura Housing's mission of providing compassionate, effective, and culturally responsive services to individuals and families in need-helping them achieve stability, dignity, and long-term independence.

Please Note : Ventura Housing is also establishing an Eligibility List for anticipated future vacancies budgeted for the first part of 2026

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