Child Protection Specialist

The State of New Mexico is seeking a dedicated Child Protection Specialist to join our team in providing exceptional services to foster families.

We are looking for an experienced professional who can assess and license foster homes, conduct ongoing case activities, and provide pre and post placement services to adoptive families. As a Child Protection Specialist, you will play a vital role in promoting family-focused and child-centered practice, ensuring the well-being and safety of children in our care.

This position requires a strong understanding of Protective Services Division policies and procedures, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will work closely with community service providers, schools, and other stakeholders to identify the needs of children and their families, and develop effective safety plans.

• Assess and license foster homes in accordance with Protective Services Division policies and procedures (35%);
• Conduct ongoing case activities for maintenance and retention of licensed families (35%);
• Provide pre and post placement services to adoptive families (20%);
• Complete FACTS documentation on providers as per policy and procedure (10%).

We are seeking a candidate with relevant experience working directly with children, youth, and their families, as well as experience working with community service providers, schools, and other stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have strong assessment and intervention skills, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

The minimum qualification for this position is a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a related field, or a combination of education and experience totaling five years. Preference will be given to candidates with licensure by the New Mexico Board of Social Work Examiners at the LBSW, LMSW, or LISW level.

Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. Pre-employment background investigation is required and is conditional pending results.

This position works in an office setting, requiring regular hours, late nights, weekends, and on-call work. Travel may be required, and incumbents may be exposed to stressful situations and irate clients.

The estimated salary range for this position is $41,522 - $66,434 annually, based on the state's salary schedule. This includes a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.