Child Welfare Permanency Worker

Office of Shared Administration • Kanawha, WV

22h

About The Position

The Child Welfare Permanency Worker performs adoption services within child welfare. The role focuses on finding suitable adoptive homes for children in foster care and establishing permanency and stable family environments. The worker navigates the adoption process to ensure it is conducted ethically, legally, and in the child’s best interests. This includes matching prospective adoptive families with children, facilitating placements, and supporting permanent family connections.

The worker collaborates with professionals in social work, mental health, medicine, the court system, and the legal system. The position requires frequent intra- and interstate travel, often using a personal vehicle, and may involve after-hours and weekend emergencies. Overtime and frequent travel may be required. A successful background check is required for employment.

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.
• Valid driver’s license; applicants must possess a valid West Virginia driver’s license.
• Reliable transportation.
• Accessibility to a phone.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Successful completion of a background check.

Responsibilities

• Attend ongoing training on State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding child abuse and neglect.
• Conduct interviews, including talking with and visually observing individuals or families, to identify safe, permanent placement options for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
• Assess eligible placement candidates using established guidelines to determine whether they can meet children’s needs under current requirements.
• Act as a liaison between the agency and the court system to ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Develop and maintain effective communication with professionals in social work, medical, and judicial fields, prioritizing children’s safety, well-being, and permanency.
• Attend court hearings and testify on behalf of the department.
• Match prospective adoptive families with children and facilitate placement in suitable homes.
• Perform related work as required.
• Maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation.

What This Job Offers

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