SENIOR CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATOR - 60021909

State of Florida • Arcadia, FL

402d

About The Position

The Senior Child Protective Investigator is a professional role focused on protecting children and conducting investigations into allegations of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or exploitation. This position serves as a model of child protection practice and involves working closely with families to assess needs and provide appropriate interventions.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree (degree must be conferred at the time of application).
• Bachelor's or master's degree in social work or related field preferred.
• 1 year of child protective investigative experience.
• Must obtain Child Welfare Certification from the Florida Certification Board within 12 months after obtaining provisional certification.
• Valid Driver License; must possess an operational private vehicle for work activities.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of theories and practice in child protection.
• Knowledge of professional ethics relating to child protection and counseling.
• Knowledge of family-centered interview and counseling techniques.
• Knowledge of interviewing and observation techniques.
• Skilled in considering child development in guiding placement of children.

Responsibilities

• Conduct investigations regarding allegations of abuse, neglect, abandonment, and/or special conditions for children.
• Collect information through interviews with children, parents, relatives, neighbors, and other parties associated with the case.
• Engage families, identify needs, and determine the level of intervention needed, including voluntary services or court-ordered dependency services.
• Provide recommendations for the development of case plans to Case Managers.
• Conduct initial and ongoing child Present and Impending Danger assessments.
• Develop signed Present Danger Plans and safety plans for identified threats and interventions with families.
• Arrange emergency placements for children who cannot safely remain in their homes.
• Notify state attorneys, law enforcement, child protection teams, and other required individuals as appropriate.
• Schedule and gather information for and participate in case staffings.
• Prepare appropriate reports and documentation in coordination with Children's Legal Services and provide testimony in court.
• Maintain thorough documentation in client records and organized client files.
• Report indications of abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment to the Florida Abuse Hotline.
• Provide subject matter expertise to help less experienced CPIs build investigative skills.
• Consult on and co-investigate complex cases with other CPIs to ensure quality and thoroughness.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with organizations and agencies involved in child protective investigations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package as per DCF salary policy.
• Opportunities for advancement and professional development within the Department of Children and Families.
• Participation in the State of Florida Direct Deposit Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 10,001+ employees