Child Protection Worker

The eligible register developed from this posting may be used to fill future FT and PT vacancies within this classification.
Performs highly responsible and professional social work involving protecting children within the permanency in their families. Positions focus on assessment and case management. The assessment function identifies the source of maltreatment, assesses risk of repeat maltreatment, develops safety plans for children, and provides support to parents and children. The case management function provides ongoing service and monitoring to families where there is a finding of abuse or neglect to protect children from further harm. Using court intervention when necessary, children are provided with a permanent safe environment through provision of social work services to families. Families active with Child Protection are not voluntary clients; thus, reactions met during the course of work varies greatly. Some evening and weekend hours may be required.

Essential Duties

Provides children with a permanent safe environment through provision of social work services to families, including crisis intervention.

Performs intake and screening functions for reports of maltreatment and other social services requests to determine if further action is warranted: accepts reports of child maltreatment; identifies the source of maltreatment; assesses risk of repeat maltreatment; develops safety plans for children; provides support to parents and children and assures permanency for children in a safe, supportive family.

Provides ongoing service and monitoring to families where there is a finding of abuse or neglect to protect children from further harm.

Performs assessment activities to ensure children are safe: evaluates safety needs of children using a questioning approach consistent with the agencies Signs of Safety philosophy; assesses reports of child maltreatment and determines if it has occurred; and assesses family functioning by defining strengths and needs.

Initiates court proceedings when necessary: provides recommendations to the court regarding family reunification; testifies and represents the department/County position in court; negotiates with legal/court professionals on recommendations, planning, goals and services.

Performs ongoing activities in case planning and monitoring: coaches families on how to meet their identified needs; intervenes in crisis situations; conducts searches to ensure family placement if possible; makes decisions regarding permanency needs for children (i.e. reunification, transfer of legal custody, TPR/adoption).

Performs a variety of administrative duties in keeping records and case plans: provides training to mandated reporters; acts as SSIS mentor; participates in local collaborative and interagency planning meetings.

Coordinates the development of support and safety networks for families: explains the benefits of established safety networks and family group decision making meetings; and refers, participates and facilitates family meetings at any stage of families’ involvement with the Social Service agency.

Provides case management services to families through development of case plans to assure safety for children.

Finds and develops appropriate homes for children requiring out-of-home placement for safety.

Coordinates services and resources to families, which includes support and decision making by extended family members and friends.

Provides recommendations to the court regarding reunification of children in placement.

Facilitates family conferences to address safety and permanency needs for children.

Accepts requests for social services and determines appropriate resources for requestor; facilitates prompt and efficient responses to those requesting service.

Screens all child and adult maltreatment reports and decides on the immediacy of intervention needed.

Works the days and hours necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks. Must be available during regular business hours to communicate with subordinates, supervisor, customers, vendors and another person or organization with whom interaction is required to accomplish work and employee goals.

Performs other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Requires equivalency of a bachelor’s degree in a human services related field and three years of experience providing professional social work case management. Case management experience with children and families is highly desired. Expertise in serving underrepresented communities; specifically American Indian and Hispanic populations, and candidates who are bilingual, are preferred. Must possess a valid driver’s license and provide a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

Selection Process

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to the hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.