Social Caseworker – Children, Youth, & Family Services (After-Hours)

El Paso County•El Paso, CO

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Social Caseworker for Children, Youth, & Family Services works to preserve and rehabilitate families while protecting children’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In this after-hours intake role, the caseworker assesses child abuse and neglect referrals, engages families, evaluates child safety, and offers resources, guidance, and support. The role works closely with families, community partners, law enforcement, medical professionals, courts, and other community resources. Depending on assignment, the caseworker coordinates child protection practice and primary decisions, or coordinates services and secondary-service decisions related to safety, permanency, well-being, and family preservation. The average schedule is Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., and is subject to change. Flexibility may periodically be needed to accommodate client schedules. Hybrid work may be available after successful completion of the initial evaluation period, subject to change and department discretion. Regular in-person presence is an essential job function. Duties may require a 24/7 on-call and after-hours rotational schedule, as well as local, non-local, and possible out-of-state travel. The position uses the employee’s registered and insured personal vehicle to transport clients as needed; mileage reimbursement is available upon request. The position receives general supervision and does not have supervisory authority, although it may provide expertise or limited guidance to employees. Applicants must upload unofficial transcripts with their application, and college transcripts are required before hire. Employment is subject to the county’s Personnel Policies Manual. The role is part of the Social Caseworker—Children, Youth, & Family Services career progression series.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher from a higher education institution, with coursework related to child welfare social caseworker responsibilities; examples include human behavior, child development, family intervention techniques, diagnostic measures, or therapeutic techniques. A degree in progress may be considered if conferred by the start date.
One year of professional, internship, or volunteer work experience in a human service-related agency. Successful completion of a BSW or MSW internship in a human services-related agency may substitute for the required experience.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance in accordance with El Paso County’s Personnel Policies Manual.
Must obtain and maintain necessary certifications applicable to the position.
Must possess or obtain Colorado State Child Welfare Caseworker Certification within 90 days of course enrollment and maintain certification thereafter.
Knowledge of casework practices, procedures, and guidelines.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with coworkers, clients, other agencies, community professionals, courts, and the public.
Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to plan, schedule, and organize efficiently.
Ability to assess situations and make prudent and appropriate decisions, and to apply conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills.
Ability to accurately and efficiently complete paperwork, reports, and documentation.
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Ability to use standard office equipment, including a computer, fax machine, copier, and telephone.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
Must pass a conditional post-offer background investigation, including fingerprinting, a motor vehicle record check, and a drug screen.
College transcripts are required before the date of hire.
Reliable transportation is required; the employee will use their own registered and insured personal vehicle to transport clients as needed.

Responsibilities

Interview clients, develop treatment plans, participate in home studies, and provide intensive casework services to families and children.
Investigate allegations of child abuse and assess imminent danger to children.
Make referrals to community resources and conduct collateral contacts.
Monitor and report client progress and recommend or refer clients to services.
Ensure services are provided and treatment plans are followed in a timely manner; determine the appropriateness of placements and services.
Address safety concerns in the home and ensure children in department custody or under supervision receive necessary interventions.
Provide crisis management and coordinate support services to help clients resolve problems and conflicts.
Serve as a liaison for the Department of Human Services and consult with caseworkers and community professionals about case situations, plans, issues, and problems.
Provide casework and assessment services for teams within the Practice Unit.
Attend and testify at court hearings and mediations; complete court-related paperwork, reports, and reviews; monitor compliance with court orders; serve temporary custody notices; and petition the court for verbal orders.
Prepare for and participate in meetings and staffings; facilitate meetings as needed.
Document contacts, complete and file paperwork, prepare case information reports, and enter updates into databases.
Arrange and provide client transportation to appointments, therapy, school, court hearings, and pre-placement visits.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and county laws, outcome measures, rules, and regulations; review cases to ensure case plans are developed and implemented.
Provide support to Practice and Support and Services teams within the CYFS Division as needed.
Collect and report unit statistics, data, outcomes, and performance information.
Perform other duties as required.