Associate/Social Services Specialist (I/II/III)

About the role

The Department of Social Services – Children’s Division cares for at-risk children and families by providing family preservation and reunification services, investigating allegations of abuse and neglect, and conducting foster care and adoption case management.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with partnering agencies who serve children and families;
• Aid families to attain and maintain stability through appropriate casework, home management or referral for more skilled counseling treatment;
• Interact with law enforcement and juvenile officers, other public officials, and community organizations regarding family and children issues;
• Represent Children’s Division during court hearings and other meetings related to case work.

Requirements

• Associate Social Services Specialist: High School Diploma or High School Equivalent and Four or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency in the delivery of protective services, including casework/case management in: investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in-home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license.
• Social Services Specialist (II): High School Diploma or High School Equivalent and Five or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency in the delivery of protective services, including casework/case management in: investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in-home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. OR Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably a degree in Social Work or comparable human services field (Substitutions allowed).
• Social Services Specialist (III): High School Diploma or High School Equivalent and Six or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency in the delivery of protective services, including casework/case management in: investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in-home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license. OR A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably a degree in Social Work or comparable human services field (Substitutions allowed); and, Two or more years of professional experience with a public or private agency in the delivery of protective services, including casework/case management in: investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in-home family crisis intervention services, and possession of a valid vehicle operator’s license.

Qualifications

• Ability to work a combination evening/weekend shift;
• Excellent problem-solving and time management skills;
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills;
• Availability to be in the “on call” rotation one weekend a month;
• Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills;
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications;
• Knowledge of child welfare laws and regulations.

Benefits

The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. This tool provides a comprehensive view of benefits and more that are offered to prospective employees.

Pay

The pay range for this position is determined by the level of experience and qualifications of the candidate. Please refer to the requirements above for details.

Schedule

The schedule for this position varies based on the needs of the department and the individual's role. It may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.