Remote Child Protection Officer - Bloemfontein

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Professional development

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Officer to join a fully remote team serving the Bloemfontein, Free State region. You will assess risks, coordinate interventions, and provide counseling to children and families while working with local resources as needed.

The role emphasizes safeguarding child rights, professional boundaries, and collaboration with legal and social service agencies in a virtual environment. Prior social work experience and SACSSP eligibility are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or related field.
• Registration or eligibility for registration with SACSSP or relevant body.
• Experience in child protection, social work, or related field.
• Proficiency in virtual communication and case management software.

Responsibilities

• Respond to concerns regarding child abuse, neglect, or endangerment via virtual channels and on-ground coordination.
• Conduct virtual risk assessments and investigations to determine safety and needs of children.
• Develop and implement safety plans and intervention strategies for at-risk children.
• Provide counseling and support to children and families remotely.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, schools, healthcare providers, and community agencies.
• Prepare reports for court proceedings and inter-agency meetings.
• Advocate for children's rights and maintain confidential case files.
• Stay updated with relevant laws and best practices in child protection.
• Participate in virtual meetings, supervision, and training.

Skills

Risk assessment

Investigation

Virtual communication

Case management software

Crisis intervention

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field

Tools

SACSSP registration process

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and experienced Child Protection Officer to join their fully remote team, focusing on supporting children and families in Bloemfontein, Free State . This vital role involves ensuring the safety and well-being of children by providing essential support, conducting risk assessments, and coordinating interventions. As a remote position, you will leverage technology to conduct investigations (where possible virtually or in coordination with local resources), provide counseling, connect families with resources, and collaborate with legal and social service agencies. We are looking for a proactive individual with a strong commitment to child rights and the ability to manage sensitive cases effectively within a virtual environment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to child welfare remotely in the Bloemfontein area.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to concerns regarding child abuse, neglect, or endangerment via virtual channels and coordinated on-the-ground efforts


• Conduct virtual risk assessments and investigations to determine the safety and needs of children


• Develop and implement safety plans and intervention strategies for children at risk


• Provide counseling and support to children and their families


• Collaborate with law enforcement, schools, healthcare providers, and other community agencies remotely


• Prepare detailed reports for court proceedings and inter-agency meetings


• Provide advocacy for children's rights and ensure their needs are met


• Maintain accurate and confidential case files and documentation in electronic systems


• Stay current with legislation, policies, and best practices in child protection


• Participate in virtual team meetings, supervision, and training sessions

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or a related field


• Registered or eligible for registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) or relevant professional body


• Minimum of 4 years of experience in child protection, social work, or a related field


• Demonstrated experience in risk assessment, investigation, and intervention with children and families


• Proficiency in virtual communication and case management software


• Excellent crisis intervention, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills


• Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with the capacity to handle sensitive information


• Ability to work independently, manage a demanding caseload, and maintain professional boundaries in a remote setting


• Knowledge of child welfare laws and resources in the Free State is a plus


• Commitment to upholding child rights and promoting child safety

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a competitive salary and the distinct advantage of working from home, providing unparalleled flexibility


• Our client provides robust support, including regular virtual supervision, professional development opportunities, and access to online resources


• A comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions, is available


• Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to safeguarding the children of Bloemfontein