Child Protective Service Worker Associate

State-of-West-Virgini; West Virginia; On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The West Virginia Department of Human Services is seeking a Child Protective Service Worker Associate to support frontline CPS staff and help protect children. This entry-level role offers hands-on learning through an in-house training program, conducting interviews, gathering information, and coordinating with community resources.

You will travel as needed, participate in safety planning, and maintain detailed case records while building skills in documentation and court support under

Qualifications

• Foundational understanding of human behavior and social systems; eager to learn child welfare laws.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
• Ability to assist in assessments, follow safety protocols, and work with a multi-disciplinary team.
• Commitment to learning and protecting children while supporting families.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior workers in conducting interviews and home visits to gather information on child safety and family needs.
• Coordinate community resources to help families access medical care, housing, and specialized services.
• Maintain detailed case records and ensure documentation is timely and accurate.
• Provide supervised visitation support, observing interactions between children and parents to ensure safety.
• Prepare preliminary reports and assist in organizing case files for court proceedings and reviews.

Skills

Foundational understanding of human行为

Education

Associate's degree or higher in social work, human services, sociology, psychology, or social services

Education substitution: Honorably retired law enforcement, parole, or probation officer

Job description

Lead the Future of Family Advocacy!

Are you ready to launch a meaningful career where your compassion meets your commitment to community service? We’re looking for a motivated and empathetic Child Protective Service (CPS) Worker Associate to join our team. This is an entry-level professional role designed for those eager to learn the foundations of child welfare while supporting the critical mission of family preservation. You will perform essential casework duties under the guidance of experience mentors in areas such as family support, case documentation, and community resource coordination.

What You Bring:

• A foundational understanding of human behavior, social systems, and a desire to learn the complexities of child welfare laws.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals in various settings.
• Ability to assist in assessments, follow structured safety protocols, and work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• A commitment to learning, personal growth, and a passion for protecting children and support families in need.

Why Join Us?

• Gain hands‑on experience and professional mentorship as you build a career in social services and child advocacy.
• Support vital interventions that keep children safe and help families overcome challenges.
• Enjoy competitive benefits, including generous leave, comprehensive health coverage, retirement options, and eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) programs.
• Be part of a mission‑driven organization committed to social justice and the protection of human rights.

Child Protective Service Worker Associate will perform duties to support Child Protective Services Workers. This position is critical to the health and safety of West Virginia's children. Upon completion of an in‑house training program, these positions gather information and conduct interviews regarding abuse, neglect or exploitation of children. This position will also assist with court petitions, transports, safety planning and other duties to support staff. Due to the needs of this position, travel is required and may include being on‑call during non‑traditional hours. Ongoing training is provided, as is access to support services for the worker. This position is eligible for overtime pay.

Applicants must possess a valid WV driver’s license, and reliable transportation. Applicants also must have strong communication skills, both oral and written, and maintain detailed case records and extensive documentation. Overtime hours and frequent travel may be required. Successful completion of a background check is required for employment.

• Assist senior workers in conducting interviews and home visits to gather information regarding child safety and family needs.
• Coordinate community resources, helping families access medical care, housing assistance, and specialized support services.
• Maintain detailed case records, ensuring all documentation is accurate and submitted within required timeframes.
• Provide supervised visitation support, observing and documenting interactions between children and parents to ensure safety and progress.

Prepare preliminary reports and assist in the organization of case files for court proceedings and administrative reviews.

• Education: Associate's degree or higher in social work, human services, sociology, psychology, or social services from an accredited college, university, community and technical college, community college or junior college.
• Education substitution: Status as an honorably retired law enforcement, parole, or probation officer.
• Experience: None.
• Special Requirements: Valid driver’s license.

The Bureau for Social Services champions the security, permanence, and welfare of children and vulnerable adults, empowering individuals and strengthening families. Formerly the Bureau for Children and Families, the Bureau for Social Services operates under the West Virginia Department of Human Services, serving children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults facing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Equipped with extensive training to handle delicate situations with compassion and dignity, these workers contribute to the advancement of a vibrant and healthy West Virginia by facilitating access to crucial healthcare, essential social services and benefits, and fostering safe, supportive, and healthy environments. Through this hard work, at risk populations can begin to thrive within the community.