Adult Protective Services Caseworker

Protect. Advocate. Make an Impact.

Alternatives (for the Older Adult, Inc.) is a 501(c)(3) private, non-profit organization serving ten counties in Midwestern Illinois. Since 1984, our mission has been to promote independence, safety, and quality of life for older adults, adults with disabilities, and their families.

Our Adult Protective Services (APS) team plays a critical role in protecting some of our most vulnerable community members. If you are compassionate, resilient, and driven to advocate for those who cannot always advocate for themselves, we invite you to join us.

Position Summary: Adult Protective Services Caseworker

Under the supervision of the Adult Protective Services Program Director, the APS Caseworker provides assessment, investigation, and intervention services to abused, neglected, or exploited adults age 60 and older, as well as dependent adults ages 18–59 with disabilities. This role balances fieldwork, advocacy, crisis intervention, and collaboration to ensure client safety and dignity.

What You’ll Do

• Intake & Screening: Receive and evaluate reports of abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or self-neglect in accordance with Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) intake standards
• Assessment & Investigation: Conduct comprehensive assessments and investigations, including interviews with alleged victims, caregivers, alleged abusers, and other relevant parties in home and community settings across a ten-county service area
• Care Planning & Coordination: Evaluate client needs, develop individualized care plans, and coordinate or secure legal, social, and medical services
• Crisis Intervention & Support: Provide crisis intervention and supportive counseling to victims and families affected by abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• Documentation & Compliance: Accurately document all client contacts, case consultations, and program data; submit required paperwork in a timely manner to support compliance and billing
• Collaboration & Networking: Work closely with law enforcement, State’s Attorneys, and community partners to ensure client safety and effective outcomes
• Public Awareness & Education: Present information on Adult Protective Services and mandatory reporting requirements to community organizations and agencies

What You Bring

• Master’s degree preferred in Health, Social Services, or Social Work

OR Bachelor’s degree (B.A./B.S.) or RN in Health, Criminal Justice, Social Services, or Social Work with at least one year of experience in elderly casework or protective services

• At least one year of social work or related casework experience required
• Strong assessment, documentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently in the field and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Valid driver’s license in the state in which you are a resident, current auto insurance, and reliable vehicle
• Willingness to travel throughout the ten-county service area (mileage reimbursed)

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Purpose-Driven Work: You’ll protect vulnerable adults and make a tangible difference in their safety and well-being
• Meaningful Advocacy: Your voice and actions directly support individuals during some of the most critical moments of their lives
• Supportive Leadership & Team Culture: Work alongside experienced professionals who value collaboration, integrity, and compassion
• Autonomy with Support: Enjoy independence in the field with guidance and backup from a strong supervisory team
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive benefits that support your health, stability, and work-life balance
• Professional Growth: Ongoing opportunities to strengthen investigative, clinical, and advocacy skills

Additional Details

• Work Location: On the road / community-based
• Education: Bachelor’s degree required
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of social work or related casework required

Alternatives (for the Older Adult, Inc.) is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing and able to travel throughout 10-county service area?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person