Child Welfare Consultant

Office of Shared Administration • Statewide, WV

11d

About The Position

The Child Welfare Consultant works in the Office of Field Support, ClearPath Unit, providing consultation, documentation, and closure decisions for child protective services assessments in which children have been determined safe after a thorough investigation. The role supports consistent, timely, high-quality consultation and documentation statewide through the application of policy and practice standards.

Applicants must have a valid West Virginia driver’s license and reliable transportation; travel may be required. Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check. Applicants hired into this classification must obtain licensure as a Social Worker from the West Virginia Board of Social Work within a timeframe set by the appointing agency. Until licensed, they may not perform duties that require a licensed social worker under state law or Board regulation.

The Bureau for Social Services operates under the West Virginia Department of Human Services and serves children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Its work includes facilitating access to healthcare, social services, and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in an area related to social work, social services, or child welfare.
• Valid West Virginia driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Successful completion of a background check.
• Obtain licensure as a Social Worker from the West Virginia Board of Social Work within the timeframe set by the appointing agency; until licensure is obtained, do not perform duties that require a licensed social worker under state law or Board regulation.

Nice To Haves

• Preference may be given to candidates with demonstrated experience in child welfare and/or social services.
• For internal applicants only, two years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience as a worker in the Child Protective Service or Child Welfare series may substitute for the required experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide consultation and guidance to Child Protective Service Workers on cases eligible for closure at ClearPath.
• Review case documentation, risk and safety assessments, and ensure alignment with West Virginia Code and Bureau for Social Services policy before recommending case closure.
• Collaborate with field Child Protective Service Workers and Supervisors to ensure cases meet criteria and CPS decisions reflect best-practice standards and support positive outcomes for families.
• Complete assessment documentation and make closure decisions.
• Identify practice trends through consultation and contribute to system improvement initiatives.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on child safety and risk assessment.
• Participate in case reviews, quality assurance activities, and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time