Child Welfare Permanency Worker

Office of Shared Administration•Statewide, WV

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Valid driver’s license.
Reliable transportation.
Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
Ability to maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation.
Successful completion of a background check is required for employment.

Nice To Haves

Accessibility to a phone.

Responsibilities

Perform adoption services in the area of child welfare services.
Find suitable adoptive homes for children in the foster care system.
Navigate the intricacies of the adoption process ethically, legally, and in the best interests of the child.
Conduct thorough matching of prospective adoptive families with children.
Facilitate the placement of children in suitable homes.
Work towards the establishment of permanent and loving family connections.
Interact with professional practitioners in social work, mental health, court, and the legal system.
Attend and complete ongoing training to develop comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding child abuse and neglect.
Conduct interviews to identify safe, permanent placement options for children who were victims of abuse or neglect by talking with and visually observing individuals and/or families.
Assess 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.
Develop and maintain 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 testify before the court on behalf of the department.