Child Protection Worker-Assessments and Investigations

Job Summary Performs highly responsible and professional social work involving protecting children within the permanency of their families. Responsibilities focus on screening, assessment, case management, and family group decision‑making. Essential Duties Intake and screening of child and adult maltreatment reports and other social services requests to determine appropriate action. Assess risk of repeat maltreatment, develop safety plans for children, coordinate out‑of‑home placement when necessary and provide support to parents and children. Monitor ongoing service and safety for families where abuse or neglect is found, using court intervention when needed to secure a permanent safe environment. Initiate court proceedings, provide recommendations, testify, negotiate with legal professionals, and represent the department in court. Coach families to meet identified needs, intervene in crisis situations, and make decisions regarding permanency options (reunification, adoption, termination of parental rights, etc.). Maintain detailed case records, provide training to mandated reporters, serve as SSIS mentor, and participate in inter‑agency planning meetings. Coordinate family group decision‑making conferences, manage referrals, and work with contracted agencies for families in grant counties. Write grants and report statistical data, accept requests for social services, and facilitate prompt responses. Work required hours to respond to all assigned responsibilities, including evenings, weekends, and regular business hours. Minimum Qualifications Equivalency of a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or Sociology plus three years of professional social work case‑management experience with children and families. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Preferred: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology or Human Services with at least one year of experience working with children and families. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS Report to the Social Work Supervisor and work within established professional guidelines and county, state, or federal regulations. Exercise independent judgment while following overall standards set by the Social Services Director and provide training to related Social Workers. CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES Customer Service: Deliver respectful, responsive, solution‑oriented public services. Communication: Clear, concise, and purposeful communication. Collaboration: Partner with communities, schools, faith groups, businesses, and non‑profits. Stewardship: Drive investments guided by resident input to transform lives. Empowerment: Promote self‑reliance and hope through supportive strength‑building. Resiliency: Respond to public health and safety emergencies. Innovation: Apply informed risks to improve service delivery. Professional Knowledge: Current federal and state laws (e.g., ICWA), agency programs, policies, and procedures. Human Behavior & Cultural Diversity: Provide equitable service delivery respecting diversity. Case assessment: Conduct interviews, prioritize, analyze complex case situations, make judgments, and use discretion. Technology: Proficient in MS Office, SSIS, Traverse, and other state/local tools. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS Inside office and client residences; field work may involve exposure to health hazards and potential hostility. Requires flexible hours, occasional evenings and weekends, and ability to lift up to 35lb. SELECTION PROCESS Based on a minimum qualifications screening and background check, with review by the County Board. #J-18808-Ljbffr