Child Welfare Specialist I-NNWS

Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation•Toppenish, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs professional-level child welfare case management services for children and families experiencing safety and risk concerns. This position manages moderate to complex cases, including abuse and neglect matters, family conflict, substance use concerns, and cases requiring court involvement. Conducts safety and risk assessments and develops safety plans to ensure child protection. Exercises professional judgment in case planning and service delivery consistent with tribal, federal, and state laws and policies. After successfully completing a structured on-the-job training program and demonstrating competency in required child welfare practice areas, advancement to Child Welfare Specialist II may occur upon successful completion of training, education requirements, and demonstrated proficiency.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Must be actively working toward an Associate's Degree (AA) in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field.
Experience may include courtroom support, legal documentation preparation, case aide work, probation support, or similar functions.
Must maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to Yakama Nation Personnel Policies and chain of command.
Must possess a valid CPR/HIV card or ability to obtain one within six months of hire.
Must complete at least 16 hours of child welfare training annually.
Required to pass a pre-employment background check.
Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit with Defensive Driving Course Certificate (to be updated every 2 years).

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Human Services, or related field.
Minimum Two (2) years experience working in or closely with a court system, legal environment, law enforcement agency, child welfare program, or related human services field preferred.
Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Prepare court reports that include: Case history and relevant background, Safety and risk assessment, summaries, Documentation of Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) active efforts, Service plan compliance and progress updates, Recommendations regarding case direction and permanency
Provides written and oral testimony in Yakama Nation Children's Court as required.
Participate in Family Team Decision Making (FTDM) meetings, Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committee (LICWAC), and multi-disciplinary staffing.
Ensures culturally responsive practice consistent with Yakama Nation traditions and values.
Coordinates permanency planning efforts, including reunification, guardianship, long-term foster care, and other permanency arrangements.
Works toward timely permanency in accordance with court mandates and policy requirements.
Work may involve unusual hours and after-hours crisis response and may include overnight situations.
Assists with case management activities for assigned families.
Assists in developing and monitoring service plans with measurable objectives under supervisory guidance.
Conducts home visits and health and safety checks as assigned and under direction.
Assists in preparing case documentation and supporting materials for court reports.
May attend court hearings to observe proceedings and support assigned cases.
Coordinates visitation schedules and may supervise visitations as assigned.
Refers clients to community resources and service providers.
Maintains case records, reports, and required forms in prescribed agency formats.
Coordinates and may provide transportation to clients.
Participates in required Core Indian Child Welfare Act training and other assigned professional development activities.