Child Protection Specialist - Crisis & Advocacy

State of Iowa; Indianola (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mileage reimbursement

Telework after probation

Health benefits

Job summary

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) seeks a Child Protection Worker for the Des Moines Service Area, based in Warren County Indianola. The role supports children and families, with regular hours 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Friday, and on-call evenings/weekends. Telework may be available after six months' probation.

Responsibilities include risk assessments, home visits, court involvement, and coordination with partners to promote child safety and family well-being.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field and 3 years of relevant full-time experience.
• Bachelor’s in social work with 2+ years of related work in human services or criminal justice.
• Master’s degree in a related field as specified.
• State-specific experience pathways for social work roles in IDHS.

Responsibilities

• Conduct risk and safety assessments for children in potentially unsafe environments.
• Perform home visits and interviews, document findings clearly and accurately.
• Support families in crisis, helping resolve issues and promote well-being.
• Apply Iowa Code and agency policies to determine appropriate case outcomes.
• Attend court hearings and testify as required.
• Collaborate with community partners to coordinate services and resources.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.
• Adapt to changing schedules and priorities with professionalism.

Skills

Engagement with families

Crisis management

Oral and written communication

Observational and analytical skills

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree + 3 years human services experience

Bachelor's degree in Social Work + 2 years experience

Master’s degree in human services/social work/criminal justice

Advanced education/experience combination as defined by state rules

Job description

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) seeks a Child Protection Worker for the Des Moines Service Area, based in Warren County Indianola. The role supports children and families, with regular hours 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Friday, and on-call evenings/weekends. Telework may be available after six months' probation.

Responsibilities include risk assessments, home visits, court involvement, and coordination with partners to promote child safety and family well-being.