Child Welfare Permanency Worker

Salary : $41,925.00 - $69,875.00 Annually
Location : Fayette, WV
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: BSS26CAH036
Department: Human Services
Division: Bureau for Social Services - Central - Adoption/Homefinding
Opening Date: 06/05/2026
Closing Date: 6/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern


General Description
Child Welfare Permanency Worker

This position performs adoption services in the area of child welfare services. Work demands a dedicated effort towards finding suitable adoptive homes for children navigating the complexities of the foster care system, with a goal of establishing permanency and stable family environments. These positions navigate the intricacies of the adoption process, ensuring that each step is conducted ethically, legally, and in the best interests of the child. These positions will be conducting thorough matching of prospective adoptive families with children, facilitating the placement of children in suitable homes, and working towards the establishment of permanent and loving family connections. They interact with various professional practitioners in the fields of social work, mental health, court, and the legal system. These positions require frequent travel, often using a personal vehicle, both intra- and interstate, and may involve after-hours and weekend emergencies. Perform related work as required.
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Attending, ongoing training to develop comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding child abuse and neglect.
• Conducting interviews to identify safe, permanent placement options for children that were victims of abuse or neglect by talking with and visually observing individuals and/or families.
• Assessing eligible placement candidates using established guidelines to determine if the needs of the children can be met under the current requirements.
• Act as a liaison between the agency and the court system to ensure correct policies and procedures are always being followed.
• Developing and maintaining effective communication with professionals across the respective social work, medical and judicial fields to ensure that the safety, well-being, and permanency of children is the priority.
• Attend court hearings and testifying before the court on behalf of the department.

Applicants must possess a valid WV driver's license, and reliable transportation. Applicants also must have strong communication skills, both oral and written, and maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation. Overtime hours and frequent travel may be required. Successful completion of a background check is required for employment.

Counties of work: Fayette, Raleigh, Nicholas

Position Number(s): 0511P06335

Example of Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Attending, ongoing training to develop comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding child abuse and neglect.
• Conducting interviews to identify safe, permanent placement options for children that were victims of abuse or neglect by talking with and visually observing individuals and/or families.
• Assessing eligible placement candidates using established guidelines to determine if the needs of the children can be met under the current requirements.
• Act as a liaison between the agency and the court system to ensure correct policies and procedures are always being followed.
• Developing and maintaining effective communication with professionals across the respective social work, medical and judicial fields to ensure that the safety, well-being, and permanency of children is the priority.
• Attend court hearings and testifying before the court on behalf of the department.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience:

None.

Special Requirements:

Valid driver's license. Accessibility to a phone.
Note: At the appointing agency's discretion, competitive applicants may receive probationary appointment pending official verification of the qualifying training, examination or certification. The qualifying training, examination or certification must be verified before the employee may be certified permanent.

About the Organization
The Bureau for Social Services champions the security, permanence, and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, empowering individuals and strengthening families. Formerly the Bureau for Children and Families, the Bureau for Social Services operates under the West Virginia Department of Human Services, serving children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Equipped with extensive training to handle delicate situations with compassion and dignity, these workers contribute to the advancement of a vibrant and healthy West Virginia by facilitating access to crucial healthcare, essential social services and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive, and healthy environments. Through this hard work, at risk populations can begin to thrive within the community.
Discover the amazing benefits awaiting you if employed by the State of West Virginia. With approximately 10 hours of annual leave and 12 hours of sick leave accruing monthly, your time off is secure and grows with your tenure. Ensure your health with comprehensive coverage Plan for the future with confidence through our and options. Take advantage of programs like and tuition assistance. West Virginia offers more than just a job-it's a commitment to your well-being and future.


Part-time permanent employees who work an average of 30 or more hours per week over the course of a year, are eligible to receive benefits. Temporary employees who work 30 hours or more are eligible for insurance benefits only.