3 Nome (PCN 069398)

State of Alaska•Nome, AK

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Family and Community Services, Office of Children's Services (OCS), is recruiting for a full-time Protective Service Specialist 1/2/3 based in Nome, Alaska. This flexibly staffed position may serve in the Family Services Unit, the Investigations & Assessment Unit, or as a generalist covering both. The level of hire depends on the candidate’s demonstrated competencies; employees hired at a lower level may be promoted after completing a training plan and demonstrating competency.

Requirements

Demonstrated competencies in analytical thinking/problem solving, customer service, integrity, interpersonal skills, oral communication, writing, and technical credibility.
Competencies may be 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 for delinquent juveniles.
All positions require a valid Real ID Alaska driver's license.
Successful completion of a background investigation, including fingerprinting and a criminal records check, is required; a child protective history check will also be performed.
Current automotive insurance is required before using a personal vehicle for State business.
Applicants must complete the application, supplemental questions, and references section, including at least three references, one of whom must be a current or former direct supervisor.
Transcripts are required when education is used to meet minimum qualifications; they may be submitted with the application, at interview, or before appointment.

Nice To Haves

Stress tolerance in high-stress, hostile, emergency, or dangerous situations.
Self-management, including initiative, realistic goal-setting, timely completion of assignments, and ability to work with minimal supervision.
Teamwork and the ability to encourage cooperation, trust, commitment, and shared achievement.

Responsibilities

Investigate reports of child abuse and neglect.
Prepare intervention plans by seeking cooperation from families and others, and 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 relatives or in licensed foster homes when necessary.
Provide ongoing and in-home services to families.
Coordinate and make referrals to other service providers and agencies.
Write and submit reports to court.
Work closely with Tribal and community partners, including village ICWA workers, Village Public Safety Officers, and local schools.
Maintain frequent face-to-face and telephone contact with parents and caregivers of children in custody.
Travel as required based on client location, including visits to remote villages and rural communities.
Work evenings and weekends as well as weekdays, and participate in rotational on-call coverage; overtime may be required.
Remain available as an essential employee during pandemics and other natural disasters.