Child Welfare Safety Investigator

Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services; Picayune (MS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services is seeking a Social Service Specialist - Safety in Pearl River County, MS. This time-limited 14-position conducts investigations, safety assessments, and supports families in the child-welfare system.

You will collect data, testify in court, collaborate with law enforcement, and provide referrals. Must have a Bachelor's degree, 1–3 years of experience, and a valid driver's license with insurance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree and 1-3 years of experience.
• Appointing authority may require a social worker's license.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Professional commitment to and caring about clients and the larger profession of child welfare.

Responsibilities

• Receive investigation assignments and conduct historical checks of records to determine prior agency involvement.
• Investigate reports of child maltreatment through home visits and structured interviews.
• Conduct safety and risk assessments and make referrals for services as appropriate.
• Prepare for, attend, and testify in court hearings and administrative appeals.
• Participate in collaborative internal team meetings and staffing.
• Schedule and attend forensic interviews, autopsies, and related meetings.
• Document initial and ongoing work per established protocols and upload final reports.
• Build professional relationships with law enforcement, legal, and stakeholders.
• Require routine travel in a personal vehicle; miles reimbursed.
• On-call after hours and weekends in designated coverage area.
• Must pass a comprehensive test after training; onsite and OJT components.

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services is seeking a Social Service Specialist - Safety in Pearl River County, MS. This time-limited 14-position conducts investigations, safety assessments, and supports families in the child-welfare system.

You will collect data, testify in court, collaborate with law enforcement, and provide referrals. Must have a Bachelor's degree, 1–3 years of experience, and a valid driver's license with insurance.