Social Worker I

at Illinois Department of Human Services in Chester, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Agency: Department of Human Services

Job Requisition ID: 56532

Location: Chester, Illinois, 62233

Opening Date: 6/9/2026

Closing Date: 6/23/2026

Salary: Anticipated Salary: (Effective 7/1/26) $5,834 - $8,683 per month ($70,008 - $104,196 per year)

County: Randolph

Number of Vacancies: 1

***MUST APPLY ONLINE ***

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. While not required, a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in the Additional Documents section of your application. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended. Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to hire a Social Worker I for the Chester Mental Health Center located in Chester, Illinois to perform social work activities in the evaluation and intensive treatment of patients in a maximum-security psychiatric facility on an assigned shift, on an assigned unit. Prepares social history updates and completes updates. Attends and participates in Interdisciplinary Treatment Team meetings, writes treatment plans, obtains releases of information.  Serves as a coordinating therapist to verify the treatment needs of the patients are met. Completes all documentation for assessments, master treatment planning and subsequent treatment plan monthly reviews, discharge staffings and discharge summaries. 

Essential Functions

• Performs social work activities in the evaluation and intensive treatment of patients in a maximum-security psychiatric facility, on an assigned shift, on an assigned unit.
• Attends and participates in Interdisciplinary Treatment Team meetings. 
• Completes all documentation for assessments, master treatment planning and subsequent treatment plan monthly reviews, discharge staffings and discharge summaries. 
• Serves on various committees commensurate to the Social Worker function at Chester Mental Health Center.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Conditions of Employment

• Requires the ability to physically restrain patients as necessary to prevent injury to patient and others. 
• Requires the ability to obtain and maintain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificate. 
• Requires the ability to stoop, bend, lift or exert up to 20 pounds of force in performance of duties. 
• Requires the ability to access various worksites throughout the hospital for administrative and clinical duties. 
• Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check.
• Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law. 

*All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm; 30-minute unpaid lunch

Unit B

Headquarter Location: 1315 Lehman Dr, Chester, Illinois, 62233

Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery

Chester Mental Health Center

Clinical Services 

Work County: Randolph

Agency Contact: DHS.HiringUnit@illinois.gov

Posting Group: Social Services

About the Agency:

The Illinois Department of Human Services serves families in need all across Illinois. Our mission is providing equitable access to social services, supports, programs and resources to enhance the lives of all who we serve. We are committed to the core values of Human Dignity, Equity, Community, Urgency, Transparency and Kindness.