III - Hotline

Oklahoma Human Services•Oklahoma City, OK

1d•$37,281 - $43,969•Onsite

About The Position

The Child Welfare Specialist I/II/III works in the Oklahoma Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline, a 24/7/365 operation, receiving and processing public concerns alleging child abuse or neglect. The position is based in Oklahoma City and is performed in-office. Multiple shifts are available, and shifts may include holidays when they fall within the employee’s scheduled shift. Extensive training is provided, and all new employees complete the Child Welfare Core Academy Training Program. The specialist works closely with Child Protective Services to screen and analyze reports of suspected abuse, neglect, and threats to child safety received through the statewide hotline. The role helps callers provide relevant information, explains what constitutes child abuse or neglect, identifies possible abuse or neglect, and gathers sufficient information to assess allegations. Reports are documented and processed in the Child Abuse and Neglect Information System (KIDS), with emergency-response allegations referred immediately to district Child Welfare Services personnel. Travel is occasional. Employees must have a valid driver’s license and maintain required car insurance; state vehicles are available for work duties. Annual salaries are $37,280.75 at Level I, $40,077.79 at Level II, and $43,968.62 at Level III, plus full state employee benefits. Applicants with a Master’s Degree in Social Work receive a 5% salary incentive.

Requirements

Level I: Completion of 90 hours from an accredited college or university, or three years of experience related to child welfare work, or a combination of education and experience.
Level II: A bachelor’s degree in any field, or one year of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.
Level III: A master’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree plus one year of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist, or two years of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain required car insurance.

Nice To Haves

A Master’s Degree in Social Work qualifies for a 5% salary incentive.

Responsibilities

Receive and process public concerns alleging child abuse or neglect through the Oklahoma Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
Work with Child Protective Services to screen and analyze reports of suspected abuse, neglect, and threats to a child’s safety.
Assist callers in providing information about alleged child abuse or neglect.
Explain to callers what child abuse or neglect is.
Identify possible child abuse or neglect and gather sufficient information to make decisions about allegations.
Document and process hotline reports in the Child Abuse and Neglect Information System (KIDS).
Determine whether allegations require an emergency response and immediately notify district Child Welfare Services personnel when one is necessary.