Job Description

The Office of Defense Service's Public Defender Unit is seeking a highly motivated, organized, Masters Level human service professional for a full-time Forensic Social Specialist position in the Sussex Forensic Social Services (FSS) Unit based in our Sussex office. The Forensic Social Specialist will provide assessment, mitigation and treatment service referrals to Public Defender clients. The Forensic Social Specialist will provide mitigation and support services to assist the attorneys in gathering background information, conducting evaluations, providing mitigation and implementing treatment and alternative sentencing plans as part of the Public Defender defense team.

Essential Functions

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Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class:


Interviews clients, family members, treatment providers and DOC personnel Provides support services, which can include referrals to mental health treatment, employment, and housing services Coordinates with community-based treatment providers and the criminal justice system Writes mitigation reports and treatment plans for case resolution Gathers and reviews records and assists with reentry efforts Collaborates with attorneys as members of the defense team

Job Requirement Series

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Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
A Master's Degree in a human service field Strong assessment, writing, speaking, interpersonal skills and clinical skills. The ability to recognize and analyze problems and recommend practical solutions. Interviewing experience and knowledge of applicable interviewing techniques The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-driven environment Skill and ability in managing multiple projects at once.

Additional Posting Information

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This posting may close on or before 10/28/2025 upon filling the vacant position. Please be sure to upload a recent copy of your resume, as you complete the application process for this posting. This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System.

Conditions of Hire

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Employment is contingent upon satisfactory background checks. Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

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Group Health Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, Prescription, Flexible Spending, Long & Short Term Disability Insurance, Group Universal Life Insurance, Securian Accident & Critical Illness Insurance, Health Management Programs. 21 paid vacation days, 15 paid sick days, and 12 paid holidays, up to 12 weeks paid Parental Leave Employee Assistance Program: Access to support services such as Professional Counseling Services, Legal Services, Financial Services. Employer & Employee Funded Pension Plan as well as an Employee Funded Retirement Savings Plan available.
To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

Accommodations

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Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.



The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

Selection Plan

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10/29/2025 Application Review

11/01/2025 Tentative Interview Date