Child Protection Specialist

Description:The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Child and Family Services Division.The Child Protection Specialist provides family-centered services within a trauma-informed system to assure safety, permanency, and wellbeing for children who are at risk of or have been subjected to child maltreatment. Responsibilities include but are not limited to conducting timely assessments of reports of child maltreatment, in accordance with requirements of state and federal statues and agency policy, using standardized safety assessment tools and decision-making guides. Documenting and communicating safety threats to all involved, including preparation of affidavits for District Court when necessary. Providing appropriate level of intervention to assure safety of all families in need of Child Protective Services (CPS); continuously reviews progress made by families to eliminate safety threats. Engaging families in the establishment of a permanency plan when needed and required, and assures plan follows order of placement preference as set forth in statue and policy. Assures child(ren) is evaluated and assessed to determine medical and psychological needs throughout the case.Why Join DPHHSOur mission at DPHHS is to serve Montanans in their communities to improve and protect the health, safety, and well-being, and to empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents. The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience.QualificationsQualifications for this Career Opportunity Ability to make critical decisions, based on integration of information from multiple sources that my be discrepant, in high-stress situations. Ability to engage children and families, under difficult circumstances, to gather sufficient information to make accurate and precise decisions. Ability to identify problems, develop and implement solutions. Ability to communicate information both orally and in writing so others will understand. Meet minimum qualifications: Required bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, or related degree. Two years of social services work experience, or directly related work experience, working with children and families in difficult and sometimes volatile situations. Other combinations of related experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Preferred: Experience working with tribal government entities and/or other organizations of native peoples. Knowledge of child development, child maltreatment prevention and treatment, and family centered social work practice. How to ApplyTo be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position. Cover Letter which includes: Preferred work location(s) How your education and work experience prepared you to be successful in this position Resume References Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below.Additional InformationThis position may be eligible for partial telework within the state of Montana. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy.This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.50 an hour base pay increase effective July 1, 2024. This position supports the Child and Family Services Division Region 5 which includes the following cities: Missoula, Hamilton, Polson, and Superior. Work locations will vary depending on availability and community needs.If the position operates within an Indian Reservation. Per MCA 2-18-111, applicants claiming preference in hiring for employment due to being an Indian resident of the reservation must submit the preference in writing while the position is vacant.This position is open until filled with frequent screening of applicants.