Child Welfare Social Worker - Protective Services & Reunification

Durham County Government; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 66,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Critical Position Bonus

Job summary

Durham County Government seeks an experienced social worker in the Department of Social Services to provide protective, investigative and counseling services for at‑risk children. You will handle complex cases, coordinate with local agencies and prepare court‑related documentation.

This role requires strong knowledge of child welfare, risk assessment, and the ability to work under pressure. A Master’s in Social Work and relevant experience are preferred; the department offers a challenging,

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in social work or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Substantial knowledge of child welfare practices and family dynamics.
• Experience in casework, treatment, and investigation of abuse or neglect.

Responsibilities

• Provides services to children in the legal custody of the Department of Social Services who require reunification, relative placement, adoption and/or termination of parental rights.
• Makes diligent efforts to achieve permanency for children while monitoring safety and well‑being.
• Maintains thorough documentation of all case activity and prepares court summaries.
• Works in partnership with other community agencies and participates in associated court proceedings.
• Apply knowledge of child welfare practices, early childhood development and family dynamics.

Skills

Social Work Principles

Federal & State Law

Behavior & Family Dynamics

Community Resources

Interview Techniques

Expert Testimony

Risk Assessment

Negotiation Skills

Child Development

Effective Communication

Education

Master’s degree in Social Work

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work

Master’s degree in Counseling

Four-year degree in Human Services

Equivalent combination of training and experience

Job description

Durham County Government seeks an experienced social worker in the Department of Social Services to provide protective, investigative and counseling services for at‑risk children. You will handle complex cases, coordinate with local agencies and prepare court‑related documentation.

This role requires strong knowledge of child welfare, risk assessment, and the ability to work under pressure. A Master’s in Social Work and relevant experience are preferred; the department offers a challenging,