CHILD ABUSE INVESTIGATOR

State of Arkansas; Lowell (AR); On-site; USD 52,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Arkansas is seeking a Child Abuse Investigator within the Department of Public Safety to conduct investigations into allegations of child abuse, neglect, and maltreatment, assess safety, gather evidence, and coordinate with law enforcement and child welfare professionals.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed interviewing, accurate reporting, court testimony, and collaboration with social services, foster care, and legal teams to protect at-risk children.

Qualifications

• At least two years of experience in child welfare, social services, or law enforcement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations of reported child abuse and neglect cases, ensuring prompt response to allegations.
• Gather and analyze physical, medical, and testimonial evidence to determine findings.
• Interview children, parents, guardians, witnesses, and alleged perpetrators in a professional, trauma-informed manner.
• Prepare and present evidence and testimony in court proceedings and administrative hearings.
• Coordinate with child welfare caseworkers, law enforcement, and advocacy groups to develop safety plans for children at risk.

Job description

Anticipated Starting Salary: 52137

The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency.

Position Information

Job Series: Internal Affairs – Career Path

Classification: Child Abuse Investigator

Class Code: SIA06P

Pay Grade: SGS06

Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

Job Summary

The Child Abuse Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations into allegations of child abuse, neglect, and maltreatment. This role involves assessing the safety and well-being of children, gathering and analyzing evidence, interviewing victims and witnesses, and collaborating with law enforcement and child welfare professionals.

Primary Responsibilities

Conduct thorough investigations of reported child abuse and neglect cases, ensuring prompt response to allegations.Gather and analyze physical, medical, and testimonial evidence to determine findings.Interview children, parents, guardians, witnesses, and alleged perpetrators in a professional, trauma-informed manner.Conduct home visits and site inspections to assess living conditions and child safety.Document case details accurately and comprehensively in investigative reports.Ensure investigations align with Arkansas state laws, child protection policies, and confidentiality regulations.Prepare and present evidence and testimony in court proceedings and administrative hearings.Work closely with law enforcement, forensic specialists, medical personnel, and legal professionals to support case resolutions.Coordinate with child welfare caseworkers, legal representatives, and advocacy groups to develop safety plans for children at risk.Maintain professional relationships with social services agencies, foster care organizations, and law enforcement.Assess immediate risk factors and implement emergency protective measures when necessary.Recommend and coordinate child placement, intervention services, and protective custody actions.Provide guidance and support to affected children and families, ensuring access to necessary services.Prepare detailed investigative reports, case notes, and legal summaries in compliance with agency standards.Maintain accurate and confidential records of all investigations.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong ability to conduct fact-based, objective investigations.Skilled in analyzing evidence, identifying inconsistencies, and making sound conclusions.Familiarity with forensic interviewing techniques and child development principles.Ability to interview children, witnesses, and family members in a sensitive and trauma-informed manner.Strong written and verbal communication skills, including clear, concise, and legally sound reporting.Ability to work effectively with distressed individuals while maintaining professionalism and composure.In-depth knowledge of Arkansas child abuse statutes, family law, and criminal investigation procedures.Understanding of courtroom procedures, testimony preparation, and evidentiary standards.Familiarity with confidentiality laws and ethical standards in child welfare investigations.Ability to assess risk, determine investigative priorities, and take decisive action.Strong critical thinking skills to evaluate complex family dynamics and child safety concerns.Ability to handle multiple cases simultaneously while ensuring thorough investigations.Strong time management skills to meet strict deadlines and legal timeframes.

Minimum Qualifications

At least two years of experience in child welfare, social services, or law enforcement.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The state of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.