CASE MANAGER

About the role

The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) partners with families, caregivers, and the community to strengthen families, ensure safety, and achieve permanency for all Arizona’s children through prevention, services, and support. Case Managers/Child Safety Specialists are “Compassioneers” who protect and support vulnerable children and families across the state.

Responsibilities

• Work full‑time, 40 hours a week on‑site/in‑field; alternative work hours may be required.
• Respond to allegations of child abuse or neglect.
• Conduct interviews and assess child safety.
• Work with families in their homes and in the community.
• Coordinate services and develop case plans.
• Attend court hearings and prepare professional reports.
• Transport children and support placement needs.
• Manage cases throughout the assigned region.
• Collaborate with courts, providers, and partner agencies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree earned from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (transcripts required), or four years of experience as an Arizona Department of Child Safety Case Aide.
• Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory 39‑month driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Department of Public Safety Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Successful completion of a 22‑week in‑person classroom and field training program.
• Eligibility for the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E‑Verify).

Skills

• Quick and accurate information analysis; logical decision‑making in high‑pressure situations.
• Clear, compassionate communication; effective interviewing and professional demeanor during challenging situations.
• Strong organization, accuracy, and quality maintenance in a high‑volume environment.
• Calmness under stress; cultural competence and empathy while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Attention to detail.
• Knowledge of counseling, conflict resolution, and intervention techniques.
• Understanding of child development, family systems, and trauma‑informed practice.
• Familiarity with confidentiality, ethical decision‑making, and behavioral indicators of abuse/neglect, separation, and loss.

Pay

Starting salary: $21.7068 per hour.

Step increases after successful completion of the 22‑week training program and with years of service:

• After training: $22.59 / hour
• After 1 year of service: $24.11 / hour
• After 2 years of service: $25.96 / hour
• After 3 years of service: $27.66 / hour

Placement within the DCS Specialist step pay plan may include credit for qualifying years of service as an OCWI Investigator Senior, in addition to prior DCS Specialist experience, per agency policy.

Schedule

Full‑time, 40 hours per week on‑site/in‑field; alternative work hours may be required.

Training

The CORE program includes seven weeks of classroom training within the 22‑week program. Classroom sessions occur in one‑ to three‑week blocks in midtown Phoenix. Eligible hires receive hotel accommodations, as well as meal and mileage reimbursements during required in‑person training.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance options.
• Supportive retirement plan through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).
• 10 paid holidays annually plus generous vacation and sick leave.
• Paid Parental Leave Program (eligibility criteria apply).
• Higher education discounts, wellness programs, and professional growth and development opportunities.
• Additional details available on the State of Arizona benefits page.