In-Home Family Safety Services Advocate

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services; Texas; On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

DFPS Certification Program

DFPS cellular phone

Job summary

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is seeking a Family Based Safety Services worker to help families make changes that protect children at home after investigations. You will assess safety, develop plans, and coordinate with community resources to keep children safe.

The job involves frequent travel to family visits and may require after-hours work in a mobile unit. A Master's degree may qualify for a higher starting step, and the agency offers a Certification Program to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in social services, psychology, or related field.
• Two years of relevant work experience required with appropriate degree/credit hours.
• Applicants must have a reliable vehicle and be willing to travel up to ~60% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Responds quickly in crisis situations.
• Provides time-limited in-home services to meet family needs and reduce risk to children.
• Assesses child safety and takes action to protect the child, including removal when necessary.
• Interacts objectively with caretakers who have abused or neglected children in their care.
• Identifies resources and community supports for families.
• Maintains contact with families to achieve treatment goals.
• Develops and maintains relationships with law enforcement, judicial, medical, and community resources.
• Performs duties in a mobile unit and flexible hours as required.

Skills

Child development

Family dynamics

Verbal communication

Written communication

Relationship building

Problem solving

PC skills

Travel after hours

On-call availability

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field

Accredited Associate's degree + 2 years relevant experience

60 accredited college credit hours + 2 years relevant experience

90 accredited college credit hours + 1 year relevant experience

Job description

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is seeking a Family Based Safety Services worker to help families make changes that protect children at home after investigations. You will assess safety, develop plans, and coordinate with community resources to keep children safe.

The job involves frequent travel to family visits and may require after-hours work in a mobile unit. A Master's degree may qualify for a higher starting step, and the agency offers a Certification Program to