Child Welfare Specialist I/II/III
About The Position
The Child Welfare Specialist I/II/III works in one or more Child Welfare Programs: Child Protective Services (CPS), Family Centered Services (FCS), and Permanency Planning (PP). Depending on the program assignment, the specialist investigates child abuse or neglect allegations; works to protect children and address family barriers to safety; supports parents in strengthening protective capacities to help children remain safely at home; and provides services and placement planning to meet children’s needs and achieve reunification or another permanent plan. Extensive training is provided to new employees, who complete the Child Welfare Core Academy Training Program. Travel is extensive. The position may be located in Okmulgee or Okemah, Oklahoma, and state vehicles are available for work duties.
Requirements
- For 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.
- For Level II: a bachelor's degree in any field, or one year of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.
- For 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.
- Valid driver's license.
- Must maintain required car insurance.
- Complete the Child Welfare Core Academy Training Program as a new employee.
Responsibilities
- Investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect and participate in investigations.
- Protect children’s safety and provide services addressing family barriers that may put children at risk.
- Preserve and strengthen parents’ protective capacities to help children remain safely in their homes and prevent unnecessary out-of-home placements.
- Provide services to families, involving family members in their own treatment plans.
- Arrange placements that meet children’s medical, educational, and physical needs.
- Work toward returning children home when their needs can be met there, and arrange a permanent plan when reunification is not possible.
- Learn about treatment and preventive services.
- Visit children in placement and conduct assessments of children and families.
- Refer families and children to community services.
- Prepare case reports and other documentation.
- Attend court hearings and provide testimony.
- Consult with the District Attorney, other attorneys, and tribal partners regarding child protection, family reunification, and other permanent plans.
- Provide direct services to children in placement.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Full State Employee Benefits
- Master's Degree in Social Work salary incentive of an additional 5%
- On-call bonus ranging from $100 to $150 every two weeks, depending on responsibilities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
