Child/Family Services Trainee/Specialist - Norfolk
About The Position
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking compassionate and committed individuals to join our team as Child and Family Services Specialists (CFSS). These professionals provide essential support to children and families through trauma-informed case management and advocacy. This work has traditionally been known as Child Protective Services. This vital role directly supports our mission of Helping People Live Better Lives. This role can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. As a CFSS, you will support families involved with the child welfare system, primarily due to concerns of abuse and/or neglect. You will assess safety, work collaboratively with families and community partners, and promote permanency and well-being for children. You will frequently travel to and meet with families in their homes, attend community meetings, participate in multidisciplinary team discussions, and be involved in legal proceedings, including providing court testimony when necessary.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or other closely related area.
- Consideration will be given to applicants who are enrolled in the final semester of their Bachelor’s degree.
- Promotion to the Child and Family Services Specialist classification is contingent on successful completion of degree requirements and required training.
- Valid driver's license is required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in child welfare, juvenile justice and/or case management experience, internships with human services/child welfare agencies will also be considered.
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.
- Utilize 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
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.
- Numerous opportunities for internal advancement and promotion.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Number of Employees
101-250 employees
