Child and Family Services Specialist (CFSS)-Seward

State of Nebraska • Seward, NE

6d • $22 - $26

About The Position

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking compassionate and committed Child and Family Services Specialists (CFSS) to provide trauma-informed case management and advocacy for children and families involved with the child welfare system, primarily because of concerns about abuse or neglect. The role supports DHHS's mission of Helping People Live Better Lives.

CFSS staff assess safety, work collaboratively with families and community partners, and promote permanency and well-being for children. The work involves frequent travel to meet families in their homes, attendance at community meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions, and participation in legal proceedings, including court testimony when necessary. The position may involve entering homes in poor or unsanitary conditions, responding to emotionally difficult situations, and temporarily caring for children while coordinating safe and appropriate placements. Staff receive training, supervision, peer support, and field safety protocols.

Trainees start at $22.327 per hour, increasing to $26.183 after successful completion of training. The training schedule is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with occasional after-hours field experiences and case responsibilities. After training, work hours are flexible, though evening hours may be necessary. The role includes an on-call rotation on weeknights, weekends, and holidays. The position is based in Seward, Nebraska.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or another related field.
• Applicants in the final semester of a bachelor's degree may be considered; promotion to Child and Family Services Specialist is contingent on completing degree requirements and required training.
• A valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to engage effectively with children and adults from diverse backgrounds, including people experiencing crisis, trauma, or instability.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, or case management.
• Internships with human services or child welfare agencies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a case manager for families referred to DHHS.
• Conduct home visits and comprehensive safety assessments in diverse community settings.
• Advocate for the well-being of children and families while respecting cultural and individual diversity.
• Apply family-centered practices and actively involve families in decision-making.
• Collaborate with the legal system and other partners to support case permanency goals.
• Use Structured Decision Making (SDM) tools to inform safety planning and case decisions.
• Write timely, accurate, and professional documentation for internal and legal use.
• Connect families to formal services and informal supports based on assessed needs.
• Promote normalcy and permanency for children in care.
• Apply trauma-informed and least-restrictive approaches to strengthen family functioning and resilience.
• Participate in an on-call rotation, including weeknights, weekends, and holidays.
• In some situations, temporarily care for children while coordinating their transition to safe and appropriate placements.

Benefits

• Vacation and sick leave begin accruing immediately upon hire.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Agency-backed retirement plan with employer match.
• Supportive leadership and team culture.
• Opportunities for internal advancement and promotion.
• Comprehensive pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement, and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level