Social Services Specialist - Sexual Abuse/Juvenile Assessments

Job Location: Statewide. The applicant chosen for this position will work within the Sexual Abuse, Juvenile Assessments, and Referrals Unit. The base for these positions will be determined by the applicant(s) selected and office capacity. All internal promotional applicants are encouraged to apply as there may be alternate office space available. Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g., shift, or time-of-service pay). This position is responsible for conducting investigations and assessments involving reports of child sexual abuse, juvenile assessments, and identified referrals. Responsibilities include evaluating child safety, conducting comprehensive interviews, gathering and documenting evidence, and coordinating with Children’s Division staff and multidisciplinary partners to ensure timely, trauma-informed responses. The investigator collaborates with law enforcement, medical providers, Child Advocacy Centers, prosecutors, schools, and other community partners to assess allegations, determine child safety, and coordinate appropriate services. This position requires sound professional judgment, strong investigative skills, and the ability to effectively engage children and families experiencing trauma. Conducts investigations and assessments involving allegations of child sexual abuse and juvenile assessments and appropriately handles identified referrals in accordance with Children’s Division policy and state law.Assesses child safety, risk, and protective capacities through interviews, observations, collateral contacts, and review of available records.Conducts developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed interviews with children, caregivers, alleged perpetrators, and collateral contacts.Coordinates investigations with law enforcement, Child Advocacy Centers, prosecutors, medical professionals, schools, and other multidisciplinary partners.Documents investigative activities, assessments, contacts, and findings accurately and within required timeframes.Develops and implements safety plans and coordinates services necessary to ensure child safety and family stabilization.Prepares reports, court documentation, and other required records; provides testimony during administrative and judicial proceedings as needed.Participates in multidisciplinary team meetings, case consultations, and staffing related to assigned investigations.Maintains current knowledge of Children’s Division policies, investigative practices, trauma-informed care, and relevant laws affecting child welfare investigations and assessments.Develops and maintains collaborative working relationships with internal staff and external community partners.Performs other related work as assigned. Associate Social Services Specialist A 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. OR A 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 (II) A 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 A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably a degree in Social Work or comparable human services field (Substitutions allowed); and, One 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 (III) A 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. Preferred Qualifications Ability to work a combination evening/weekend shift Excellent problem-solving and time management skillsExcellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skillsAvailability to be in the “on call” rotation one weekend a month.Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed Lack of post‐secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant. 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. The Total Compensation Calculator and other applicant resources can be found here. CD-HR@dss.mo.gov