Memorandum
Date: June 13, 2023
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Crystal Markytan, Director, Social Services
Subject: Approve proposed revision to the Merit System Services (MSS) Social Worker IV Classification Specification
Executive Summary:
The Department of Social Services (DSS) partners with Merit System Services for the recruitment and processing of applicants interested in positions within the Department. MSS is used by many social services agencies throughout California. As a statewide agency partner, MSS is required to ensure consistent and fair application of minimum qualifications across all counties who use a MSS class specification. After review of the current Minimum Qualifications (MQs) and discussion with several partner counties, MSS has identified the recruitment barriers posed by the MQs as currently written. As such, MSS has determined that allowing candidates who are within six months of meeting the MQs for the Social Worker IV classification to participate in the selection process would provide additional recruitment options for partner counties who are facing critical staffing needs. MSS is proposing to add the following text to the Social Worker IV class specification:
“Candidates who are within six months of satisfying the education requirement for this classification will be admitted to the examination, but they must complete the education requirement and provide evidence of graduation prior to appointment.”
In order to revise the classification specification, MSS must receive certification and approval of the updated language from all counties who utilize the classification. Each DSS Director is responsible for ensuring notification to their Board of Supervisors and any applicable bargaining units, and certifying approval of the interested parties by completing the certification form included with this memo.
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Recommended Action: Approve proposed revision to the Merit System Services (MSS) Social Worker IV Classification Specification