Child Protective Service Worker Senior

About the Role

Elevate your impact as a Lead Advocate by handling the most complex Child Protective Services cases and providing peer leadership within the unit. This role is designed for seasoned professionals who excel in high-stakes clinical decision-making, mentor junior staff, and serve as a primary liaison between the agency and the judicial system.

Under general supervision, perform complex Child Protective Services casework requiring advanced judgment concerning multifaceted cases involving the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of minors. This position involves serious and complicated casework that demands advanced assessment of potentially dangerous situations for both worker and client.

A personal vehicle is required for travel, and overtime as well as on-call availability during non-regular business hours are necessary. Must maintain access to a telephone and be available as needed.

Responsibilities

• Manage a specialized caseload involving high-risk or high-profile cases that require advanced intervention strategies.
• Serve as a Lead Worker, providing technical assistance, coaching, and peer review of documentation for Associate and regular-level CPS workers.
• Conduct “Joint Investigations” with law enforcement and medical specialists in cases of severe trauma or criminal intent.
• Draft and present complex permanency plans to multidisciplinary teams, advocating for the long-term stability of children.
• Act as a hearing officer or agency representative in administrative reviews and high-level court hearings when the Supervisor is not available.
• Attend necessary training to keep up with evolving casework procedures.
• Demonstrate effectiveness in training, assigning, and reviewing the work of others.
• Maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation.
• Perform related work as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Three (3) years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience performing social services, probation and enforcement services, or community support and welfare services for adult and child protection.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Successful completion of a background check for employment.
• Must obtain licensure as a social worker from the West Virginia Board of Social Work within a timeframe established by the appointing agency.

Additional education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis or as determined by the Office of Shared Administration Equivalency Chart. Internal applicants with one (1) year of full-time or equivalent part-time experience as a Child Protective Service Worker may substitute for the required experience.

Skills

• Advanced clinical expertise in identifying chronic neglect, severe physical abuse, and complex family dynamics.
• Proven mentorship abilities with a track record of guiding Associate and entry-level workers through difficult field situations.
• Superior analytical skills to review case data, identify trends, and develop creative solutions for families with significant barriers to success.
• Mastery of the legal system, including drafting sophisticated court documents and providing expert testimony in high-profile proceedings.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits including generous leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage.
• Retirement options.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs.

About the Organization

The Bureau for Social Services champions the security, permanence, and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, empowering individuals and strengthening families. Operating under the West Virginia Department of Human Services, the Bureau serves children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Workers are equipped with extensive training to handle delicate situations with compassion and dignity, contributing to a vibrant and healthy West Virginia by facilitating access to crucial healthcare, essential social services, and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive environments.