CASE MANAGER

Department of Child Safety – Arizona

About the role

The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) is a social and human services agency whose mission is to successfully partner with families, caregivers, and the community to strengthen families, ensure safety, and achieve permanency for all Arizona’s children through prevention, services, and support.

As a Case Manager/Child Safety Specialist, you’ll work full-time (40 hours a week) on-site and in the field; alternative work hours may be required. This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function to conduct State business.

Responsibilities

• 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 your assigned region
• Collaborate with courts, providers, and partner agencies

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree earned from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (conferred transcripts); OR 4 years 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
• Successfully complete the 22 weeks of in-person classroom and field training program
• Analyze information quickly and accurately, apply logic to complex situations, and make independent, sound decisions in high-pressure moments
• Communicate with clarity and compassion, conduct effective interviews, gather accurate information, and remain professional during challenging situations
• Stay organized and maintain accuracy and quality in a high-volume environment
• Remain calm in stressful situations; understand diverse family systems and cultural backgrounds; and show empathy while maintaining professional boundaries
• Provide strong attention to detail

Skills

• Counseling, conflict resolution, and intervention techniques
• Child development, family systems, and trauma-informed practice
• Confidentiality and ethical decision-making
• Behavioral indicators of abuse/neglect, separation, and loss

Pay

Starting salary: $21.7068/hour with step increases after training and years of service:

• Upon successful completion of the 22-week training program: $22.59/hour
• After one year of service: $24.11/hour
• After two years of service: $25.96/hour
• After three 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, in accordance with agency policy.

Training

The CORE program includes seven weeks of classroom training within the 22-week program. Classroom sessions occur in one- to three-week blocks and are held 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 and generous vacation and sick leave
• Paid Parental Leave Program (must meet the criteria)
• Higher education discounts, wellness programs, and professional growth and development opportunities