Social Services Specialist — Family & Child Welfare

State of Missouri; Warrensburg (MO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Missouri’s Department of Social Services invites qualified applicants for a position with the Children’s Division in Missouri. The role involves protecting children, coordinating foster care and family-centered services, and providing in-home crisis intervention where needed.

Base location is Johnson County; the role may include alternate office space and occasional travel across the state. A college degree in Social Work or related field is preferred, with substitutions allowed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent with 4+ years of professional experience in protective services (Associate)
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field (substitutions allowed)
• Social Services Specialist II: HS diploma + 5+ years of experience OR Bachelor’s with substitutions + 1+ year of experience
• Social Services Specialist III: HS diploma + 6+ years of experience OR Bachelor’s with substitutions + 2+ years of experience
• Credit hours may substitute for experience; 30 credit hours = 1 year of experience
• Lack of post-secondary education will not automatically disqualify applicants

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with partnering agencies serving children and families
• Assist families to attain and maintain stability through casework, home management or referrals
• Interact with law enforcement, juvenile officers, officials, and community organizations on family and children issues
• Represent Children’s Division during court hearings and related meetings
• Respond to needs of children in homes and community, providing transportation if needed
• All other duties as assigned

Skills

Excellent communication

Problem solving

Time management

Evening/weekend availability

Travel across Missouri

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Job description

State of Missouri’s Department of Social Services invites qualified applicants for a position with the Children’s Division in Missouri. The role involves protecting children, coordinating foster care and family-centered services, and providing in-home crisis intervention where needed.

Base location is Johnson County; the role may include alternate office space and occasional travel across the state. A college degree in Social Work or related field is preferred, with substitutions allowed.