Social Worker I/II - Child Protection Investigator

Child Protection Investigator Washington County is hiring for a Child Protection Investigator position. This position is temporarily located on a training team until a vacancy arises on the investigations team. The investigator is responsible for assessing reports of child maltreatment, ensuring child safety, engaging families, and connecting children and caregivers with services and supports. The role conducts thorough investigations, collaborates with community partners, and utilizes strengths-based, trauma-informed practices to promote child safety, permanency, and well‑being. The position requires work in office, community, home, school, hospital, and court settings. It may involve exposure to challenging family situations, crisis intervention, occasional after‑hours response, and frequent travel within the county or service area. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Receive and respond to reports of alleged child abuse, neglect, and maltreatment Conduct child protection investigations and family assessments in accordance with state statutes, county policies, and best practices Interview children, parents, caregivers, collateral contacts, and other involved parties Assess child safety and risk factors and develop safety plans when necessary Make determinations regarding maltreatment findings and child safety Complete home visits and field contacts in a variety of settings Document case activities, assessments, findings, and recommendations in the agency's case management system Collaborate with law enforcement, schools, medical professionals, mental health providers, and community organizations Prepare reports and provide testimony for court proceedings as needed Identify family strengths and needs and connect families with community resources and supportive services Participate in multidisciplinary teams and case consultations Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations, agency policies, and professional standards Respond to crisis situations and emergencies involving child safety Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of child development, family systems, trauma, abuse and neglect dynamics, and child welfare practices Ability to assess child safety, risk, and protective capacities Strong interviewing, engagement, and conflict resolution skills Ability to establish rapport with children, families, and community partners Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability to make sound decisions in complex and emotionally charged situations Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Ability to manage competing priorities and meet required timelines Proficiency with case management systems and technology Desirable Experience Experience working with children, families, or vulnerable populations Child welfare or child protection experience Experience using SSIS Experience conducting investigations, assessments, or case management Paid work experience with and providing services to individuals from a variety of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds Hours / Days: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday. Work schedules and location may change based on department needs. Anticipated Hiring Rate: $70,720.00 – $96,470.40 Annually (may be hired at the Social Worker II level depending on qualifications). Perform other duties as assigned. Work Environment Semi‑sedentary involving office and field work. Potential lifting up to 20 pounds. Exposures may include disagreeable odors, communicable diseases, bodily fluids, and behavior challenges. Use of general office equipment such as telephone, computer, and electronic recorder is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr