Child Welfare Specialist

Job Summary Department of Social Services partners with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth, and move families to self‑sufficiency. The 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. Job Location Clay County. Position may be in either Alternative Care or Investigations. Internal promotional applicants are encouraged to apply as alternate office space may be available. Selected candidates may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g., shift or time‑of‑service pay). 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 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 when needed. Perform all other duties as assigned. Qualifications Associate Social Services Specialist – High School Diploma or Equivalent and four or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency in the delivery of protective services, including casework/case management in investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family‑centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in‑home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in Social Work or a comparable human services field, is also acceptable. Social Services Specialist II – High School Diploma or Equivalent and five or more years of professional experience in the delivery of protective services, with the same scope as above, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. Bachelor’s degree and one or more years of professional experience, or the equivalent credit‑hour substitution, are also acceptable. Social Services Specialist III – High School Diploma or Equivalent and six or more years of professional experience in the delivery of protective services, with the same scope as above, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. Bachelor’s degree and two or more years of professional experience, or the equivalent credit‑hour substitution, are also acceptable. Substitutions: Combination of earned credit hours from an accredited college or university in 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 as described must be of a substantial period of time (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 on call one weekend a month. Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed. Benefits State of Missouri offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. The Total Compensation Calculator is available online to provide a comprehensive view of benefits and more. Contact Email: CD‑View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr