Intake Social Worker- Child Protective Services

McDowell County•Department of Social Services, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Intake Social Worker receives, screens, and evaluates reports of suspected child abuse, neglect, and dependency. As the initial point of contact for Child Protective Services (CPS), this role assesses risk, determines whether further intervention is needed, and initiates appropriate responses under North Carolina General Statutes and agency policy. The position works with members of the public, law enforcement, medical providers, schools, and other community partners. It requires maintaining confidentiality, accurate case documentation, and current knowledge of child welfare policies. The work is primarily office-based and may involve emotionally distressing situations, as well as occasional evening, weekend, and on-call work. Compensation depends on education and experience. Listed classifications and salaries are Social Worker Trainee ($35,124.00), Social Worker I ($38,724.00), Social Worker II ($47,064.00), and Social Worker III ($51,894.00). The announcement also states that grade and salary are based on McDowell County classification and experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from an accredited program; or a bachelor’s degree in a human services field, such as psychology, sociology, criminal justice, or counseling, with relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience permitted by North Carolina State Personnel guidelines.
Knowledge of child welfare principles, including indicators of abuse, neglect, and dependency.
Familiarity with North Carolina Child Welfare policy and reporting requirements.
Strong assessment and critical-thinking skills.
Ability to make sound, timely decisions in high-pressure situations.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple cases and prioritize workload effectively.
Skill in data entry and use of case management systems.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, coworkers, and community partners.
Ability to handle sensitive and potentially traumatic information professionally and calmly.
Valid North Carolina driver’s license.
Ability to travel within the county and surrounding areas.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Completion of required state-mandated child welfare training.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW).
Prior experience in child welfare or CPS intake/investigations.

Responsibilities

Receive and document reports of alleged child abuse, neglect, and dependency from the public, law enforcement, medical providers, and other sources.
Conduct intake interviews by phone, in person, or through electronic reporting systems.
Assess the credibility and urgency of reports using structured decision-making tools and state guidelines.
Determine whether reports meet criteria for CPS assessment or investigation under North Carolina law and agency policy.
Enter detailed and accurate case information into the agency’s case management system within required timeframes.
Collaborate with law enforcement, medical professionals, schools, and other community partners as needed.
Provide reporters with consultation and guidance regarding mandated reporting requirements.
Maintain confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws and policies.
Participate in an after-hours intake on-call rotation as required.
Attend court proceedings when necessary and provide testimony related to intake decisions.
Maintain current knowledge of federal, state, and local policies governing child welfare practices.