Human Services Investigator

Tohono O•Sells, AZ

3h•Onsite

About The Position

Located in Sells, Arizona, the Human Services Investigator provides investigative, protective, and case management services under general supervision. Work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks during the process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with established standards. Major tasks are guided by instructions or procedures, and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor. Depending on the assignment, the investigator assesses the physical and psychological well-being of children and/or adults, investigates potential abuse, neglect, or harmful living conditions, arranges preventive and supportive services, and coordinates care and treatment plans. The role may involve foster or adoptive placement, adult institutional or medical placement, court reports and testimony, transportation, and ongoing case documentation. Some duties may not apply to every assignment. The position requires knowledge of Tohono O'odham culture, laws, judicial systems, and community circumstances, along with the ability to conduct investigations, make decisions in emergencies, manage confidential information, and work effectively with families, community resources, colleagues, and the public. Depending on department needs, fluency in Tohono O'odham and English may be required as a condition of employment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, or a closely related field, and one year of work experience in social work, law enforcement, or family assistance programs; or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties.
Knowledge of Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and tribal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Knowledge of the economic, educational, health, and social problems of Native Americans.
Knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and/or the Tohono O'odham Adult Protection Ordinance, depending on assignment.
Knowledge of Tohono O'odham civil codes concerning children and/or adults in need of care, and knowledge of the Tohono O'odham judicial system.
Knowledge of family dynamics and relationships.
Skill operating word-processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
Skill making effective decisions in emergency situations; analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations; and providing superior customer service.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; establish effective working relationships; maintain privileged confidential information; work independently and meet strict timelines; travel long distances throughout the Tohono O'odham Nation; conduct interviews and investigations; exercise independent judgment; and handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
Ability to work extended hours and varied schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Upon recommendation for hire, successful criminal background and National FBI checks, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record, are required to determine suitability for hire.
May be required to possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, with no DUIs or major traffic citations within the preceding three years. If required to operate program vehicles, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer’s insurance requirements for a driver’s permit.
Depending on department needs, fluency in both Tohono O'odham and English may be required as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

Conduct intake assessments to evaluate the physical and psychological well-being of children and/or adults.
Arrange preventive services, including counseling and parenting or care-skills training, for at-risk individuals and their families.
Work with families and provide counseling to help prevent removal from the home, facilitate reunification, and support adjustment to changes in home situations.
Plan care, behavior modification, counseling, or rehabilitation as needed.
Access community services and refer individuals, parents, or guardians to resources that address their needs.
Investigate home conditions and make emergency decisions to protect children and/or adults from harmful environments.
Recruit and certify eligible foster families when required, evaluating home environments and applicants’ suitability.
Place children in foster or adoptive homes, institutions, or medical treatment centers according to their needs.
Coordinate treatment plans, develop case plans, and maintain accurate and timely case records.
Prepare court reports and testify or appear in court as needed.
Transport children and/or adults to scheduled activities and appointments.
Communicate and plan regularly with the supervisor to achieve investigation and administrative objectives.
Place adults in institutions or medical treatment centers according to their needs.
Maintain professional knowledge through research, seminars, workshops, classes, conferences, and coordination with related organizations.
Perform other related duties as assigned and contribute to a team effort.