Associate/Social Services Specialist (I/II/III)

Job Location The base is negotiable within the 37th Circuit (Howell, Shannon, and Oregon County). All internal promotional applicants are encouraged to apply as there may be alternate office space available. Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g., shift, or time‑of‑service pay). About the Department The Department of Social Services partners with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth, and move families to self‑sufficiency so that Missourians can lead safe, healthy, and productive lives. Position Overview Are you passionate about helping people? Do you love working with children and families? Do you enjoy assisting people in difficult circumstances? The Department of Social Services – Children’s Division cares for at‑risk children and families by providing family preservation and reunification services, investigating allegations of abuse and neglect, and conducting foster care and adoption case management. If you want to be part of a great team working to make a difference, come join us! Responsibilities Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with partnering agencies that serve children and families. Assist families to attain and maintain stability through appropriate casework, home management, or referral for more skilled counseling treatment. Interact with law enforcement, juvenile officers, other public officials, and community organizations regarding family and children’s issues. Represent the Children’s Division during court hearings and other meetings related to case work. Respond to the needs of children in their homes and throughout the community, including providing transportation if needed. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualified for Associate Social Services Specialist High School Diploma or High School Equivalent and four or more years of professional experience in protective services, including casework and management of abuse or neglect investigations, foster care coordination, adoption or family‑centered services, treatment/rehabilitation, and in‑home family crisis intervention; possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. OR Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably Social Work or a comparable human services field. Social Services Specialist II High School Diploma or Equivalent and five or more years of professional experience in protective services with the same scope as above; possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. OR Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or comparable field plus one or more years of professional experience in protective services with the same scope; possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. Social Services Specialist III High School Diploma or Equivalent and six or more years of professional experience in protective services with the same scope as above; possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. OR Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or comparable field plus two or more years of professional experience in protective services with the same scope; possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. Additional Qualifications A combination of earned credit hours from an accredited college or university in the preferred fields such as social work, family and child development, special education, psychology, sociology, or related behavioral sciences may substitute for the stated qualifications. Thirty credit hours are equivalent to one year of experience. Professional experience described must be of a substantial period (over 50% of time). Lack of post‑secondary education will not be used as the sole basis for denying consideration to any applicant. Preferred Qualifications Ability to work a combination evening/weekend shift. Excellent problem‑solving and time‑management skills. Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Availability to be in the on‑call rotation one weekend a month. Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed. Benefits The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Total compensation is more than the dollars received in your paycheck. A Total Compensation Calculator is available as a resource. For more information, visit the employee portal. Contact: View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr