Job Description

Salary: $72,653.00 - $98,083.00 Annually Location : Des Moines, IA Job Type: Full-Time Regular Job Number: 26-1008 Department: Polk County Behavioral Health & Disability Services Opening Date: 07/16/2025 Closing Date: 7/24/2025 11:59 PM Central FLSA: Non-Exempt Bargaining Unit: PRA Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Sat/Sun Off) Bargaining Unit: AFSCME/Professional Salary Grade: 11 Location: River Place Under direction of the Fifth Judicial District Chief Judge, serves as the appointed Mental Health Advocate for Polk County executing duties in compliance with Section 229.19 of the Iowa Code and any applicable directives of the Chief Judge. Acts as an advocate representing respondents' interest regarding involuntarily hospitalization by the Court, in any manner relating to the respondent's hospitalization or treatment. Illustrative Examples of Work Makes initial contact with patient, and assists the respondent who has been committed person with initial filing of appeal, writ of habeas corpus or commission inquiry; makes periodic visits; communicates with medical personnel, reviews patients' respondents' orders, applications, medical records and medical or other reports submitted to the court; ensures compliance with the requirements of Section 229.19 of the Iowa Code. Collaborates with the Court, County Attorney, and service providers; advises the court if the services of an attorney are required to safeguard patients' respondent's interests. Develops and maintains written reports and documentation on the progress of clients including their current status, location, and issues surrounding the need for commitment. Maintains data as prescribed by the County; prepares computerized reports; develops and maintains tracking programs. Ensures data kept is in compliance with all federal, state, and local confidentiality requirements; ensures compliance with applicable regulations thorough the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Prepares and files quarterly reports with the court on patient respondent activities; prepares other reports as requested by the court and Iowa Health and Human Services. Remains current on revisions to the statute, Supreme Court rules, and the Iowa Administrative Code and implements required changes; provides public education. Provides technical assistance to clerical and support staff as directed. Performs related duties as required. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Thorough knowledge of the Iowa Code Section 229.19. Knowledge of State regulations pertaining to involuntary hospitalization/commitment by the court. Knowledge of community resources and services available to individuals with mental health diagnoses. Knowledge of trauma-informed care and practices related to mental health crisis intervention. Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of social casework. Skill in the use of personal computers and computer applications including Word, Access, spreadsheets, and web-based application software. Ability to work professionally and effectively with people with mental health diagnoses. Ability to maintain professionalism and composure when advocating and negotiating conflicts or emotional situations Ability to identify facts and issues, which may require legal evaluation and research. Ability to read, comprehend, interpret medical and court documents and material. Ability to analyze information and make sound recommendations based on such information. Ability to prepare complete and concise case records and progress reports. Ability to obtain information through interviews and observation. Ability to interpret and apply regulations. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to travel statewide. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the District Court Judge, legal staff, physicians, other health care professionals, respondents, nursing staff and the general public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment. Ability to be available to attend court proceedings and meetings. Training and Experience Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or related, and Two years of experience working with persons with serious mental health diagnoses, or Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Special Requirements: Candidate must pass a Criminal History Record Check through the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation and a Child/Adult Abuse Record Check through the Iowa Department of Human Services as defined in the State of Iowa licensing and approved standards (IAC 441, Chapter 105). A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment. A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required. Ability to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as required. Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions. Click below for a detailed overview of our benefits package. Polk County, IA

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