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

Job Location: Base Location is Boone-Columbia, MO. Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g., shift, or time-of-service pay). 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. 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, please come join us! Responsibilities Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with partnering agencies who 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 and juvenile officers, other public officials, and community organizations regarding family and children issues Represent 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, providing transportation if needed 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, 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). Substitutions allowed. Social Services Specialist (II) : High School Diploma or equivalent and five or more years of professional experience 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, or providing in‑home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license; one or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency is required. Substitutions allowed. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Social Services Specialist (III) : High School Diploma or equivalent and six or more years of professional experience 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, or providing in‑home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license; two or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency is required. Substitutions allowed. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Thirty (30) credit hours of earned coursework in accredited colleges or universities in social work, family and child development, special education, psychology, sociology, or related behavioral sciences may be used to substitute for the stated qualifications. One year of experience equals 30 credit hours. Professional experience must be of a substantial period of time (>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. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Missouri