Protective Services Specialist 1/2 Anchorage (PCN 069272M)

State of Alaska•Anchorage, AK

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Family and Community Services, Office of Children's Services (OCS), is recruiting a full-time Protective Services Specialist 1/2 for its Anchorage, Alaska office. The position is flexibly staffed, with the offer level based on the candidate’s demonstrated competencies. A hire at the lower level may advance to the higher level after completing a training plan and demonstrating competency. The first 12 months are a probationary training period that includes formal virtual training and on-the-job training with a supervisor and colleagues. The role provides Child Protection Services in a Family Services unit, an Investigations & Assessment unit, or as a generalist covering both. The work aims to ensure children’s safety, permanency, and well-being; strengthen families; and enhance parents’ protective capacities. The position carries cases and involves a mix of office and community-based work, including regular face-to-face and telephone contact with families, caregivers, community partners, and service providers. The position is based at the OCS Anchorage Regional Office in a typical office setting, with regular fieldwork in the community. Travel is expected to fluctuate between 20% and 50% of the month. Trips may last from 30 minutes to three hours and may include overnight stays of up to three days in rural conditions, exposure to severe winter weather, or travel by small aircraft. The workweek may include visits at schools or resource family homes and virtual or in-person court attendance. OCS staff are essential employees and may be required to work on call, after hours, evenings, weekends, and during pandemics or natural disasters; overtime may be necessary. Part-time telework within the duty station may be possible upon eligibility. A valid Alaska Real ID driver’s license is required. State vehicles may not always be available; mileage reimbursement is available when a personal vehicle is used for work, and current automobile insurance is required before using a personal vehicle for State business. Relocation reimbursement may be provided. A child protective history check, background check, and fingerprint check will be conducted. The recruitment is open to all applicants.

Requirements

Demonstrated competencies in analytical thinking/problem solving, customer service, integrity/honesty, interpersonal skills, oral communication, and writing.
Competencies equivalent to those typically gained through training in social science, behavioral science, health science, guidance and counseling, or a closely related field; and/or experience providing assistance, information, or referrals related to social services, health care, or legal services; child, adult, family, or group case management; licensing; probation services; or care or services to delinquent juveniles.
A valid Alaska Real ID driver’s license.
Ability to complete a child protective history check, background check, and fingerprint check.
Applicants using education to meet minimum qualifications must document education in the application and provide transcripts. Applicants must document relevant work experience in the application.
Applicants must answer the supplemental questions and provide at least three professional references; at least two should be current or former supervisors, and at least one must be a current or former direct supervisor.
Current automobile insurance is required before using a personal vehicle for State business.

Nice To Haves

Candidates who possess competencies in stress tolerance, self-management, and teamwork are sought.
Progressively responsible professional experience in relevant social or human services, case management, licensing, probation, or services to delinquent juveniles may support the required competencies.

Responsibilities

Investigate reports of child abuse and/or neglect.
Prepare intervention plans by seeking the cooperation of families and others.
Gather information about family dynamics and functioning.
Develop plans to ensure child safety while helping parents address diminished protective factors.
Place children outside the home with a relative or licensed foster home when necessary.
Provide ongoing and/or in-home services to families.
Write and submit reports to the Court.
Work closely with Tribal and community partners.
Maintain frequent face-to-face and telephone contact with parents and caregivers of children in custody.
Refer families to other service providers and agencies.
Attend caseworker visits at schools or resource family homes and attend court virtually or in person as needed.