Child Protection Officer

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 44,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive salary and benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown (Eastern Cape) is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Officer to develop and monitor robust child protection policies and procedures within the communities served. The role combines policy work with field visits and community outreach to safeguard children’s rights and well-being.

The ideal candidate will have a background in social work or related fields, strong investigative abilities, and experience implementing safeguarding frameworks.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in child protection, safeguarding, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of child development and safeguarding principles.
• Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently with discretion on sensitive cases.
• Experience in policy development and implementation.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and regularly review child protection policies and procedures.
• Provide training to staff, volunteers, and community members.
• Respond to and investigate protection concerns with timely action.
• Support children and families affected by protection concerns.
• Collaborate with social services, police, and courts.
• Maintain confidential records and case documentation.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement preventative measures.
• Stay updated on national and international child protection standards.

Skills

Investigative skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Discretion & confidentiality

Education

Social Work

Psychology

Law

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to safeguarding children's rights and well-being, is seeking a vigilant and compassionate Child Protection Officer. This role is pivotal in developing, implementing, and monitoring robust child protection policies and procedures within the communities we serve. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of child development, safeguarding principles, and relevant legal frameworks. Working within the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region, this position requires a blend of policy expertise, investigative skills, and strong interpersonal abilities to work effectively with children, families, and relevant agencies. The role will involve a hybrid work arrangement, balancing office-based duties with essential community outreach and field visits. We are looking for a proactive and ethical professional dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of every child. Your efforts will be instrumental in creating safer environments for children in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and regularly review child protection policies and procedures in line with best practices and legal requirements.
• Provide training and capacity building to staff, volunteers, and community members on child protection issues.
• Respond to and investigate child protection concerns and allegations, ensuring timely and appropriate action.
• Provide support and guidance to children and families affected by protection concerns.
• Liaise and collaborate with relevant statutory bodies, including social services, police, and courts.
• Maintain confidential records and documentation related to child protection cases.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement preventative measures to mitigate child protection risks.
• Stay updated on national and international child protection standards and legislation.

Requirements

• Proven experience in child protection, social work, child safeguarding, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of child development, trauma-informed care, and safeguarding principles.
• Strong investigative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills, with sensitivity when dealing with vulnerable individuals.
• Experience in policy development and implementation.
• Ability to work independently and manage sensitive cases with discretion and confidentiality.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Law, or a related field is essential.
• Must be willing to work in and travel within the Queenstown, Eastern Cape area, utilizing a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• Opportunity to make a profound impact on child safety and well-being in the Eastern Cape.
• Work within a supportive and dedicated team focused on child protection.
• Receive ongoing training and professional development in safeguarding.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance of office and remote work flexibility.