Child Welfare Permanency Worker

About the role

This position performs adoption services in the area of child welfare, focusing on finding suitable adoptive homes for children navigating the foster care system. The goal is to establish permanency and stable family environments by ethically and legally guiding each step of the adoption process. Responsibilities include matching prospective adoptive families with children, facilitating placements, and fostering permanent, loving family connections. The role involves collaboration with professionals in social work, mental health, court systems, and legal fields. Frequent travel, including intra- and interstate, is required, often using a personal vehicle, and may involve after-hours and weekend emergencies.

Applicants must possess a valid West Virginia driver’s license and reliable transportation. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, along with the ability to maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation. Overtime and frequent travel may be required. Successful completion of a background check is mandatory for employment.

Responsibilities

• Attend ongoing training to develop comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal social welfare laws, rules, regulations, and evolving protocols regarding child abuse and neglect.
• Conduct interviews and visual observations to identify safe, permanent placement options for children who are victims of abuse or neglect.
• Assess eligible placement candidates using established guidelines to determine if the needs of the children can be met under current requirements.
• Act as a liaison between the agency and the court system to ensure adherence to correct policies and procedures.
• Develop and maintain effective communication with professionals in social work, medical, and judicial fields to prioritize the safety, well-being, and permanency of children.
• Attend court hearings and testify before the court on behalf of the department.
• Perform related work as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Valid West Virginia driver’s license.
• Accessibility to a phone.

At the appointing agency’s discretion, competitive applicants may receive a probationary appointment pending official verification of qualifying training, examination, or certification. Verification must occur before the employee may be certified as permanent.

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, while fostering safe, supportive, and healthy environments.