Blind Inc.

The Child Protection Specialist s responsibilities include providing intensive social work services for the protection, rehabilitation and care of children; performs highly critical social work assignments in voluntary and non-voluntary child protective service cases. Essential Functions/Responsibilities The following duties are normal for this classification. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Position Duties Interview prospective clients at intake. Conduct home visits to determine needs of individuals and families for services. Provide ongoing services to children and families who have been determined in need of protective services. Counsel families and individuals Cooperate with local law enforcement and correction agencies in child abuse and neglect cases. Interpret child protective services and child welfare laws pertaining to dependency and neglect. Provide case management services for children in out-of-home placements and non- placement cases. Prepare social histories. Maintain case records which meet federal, state and local guidelines. Make child care institutional and foster home placements. Provide preventative services to the dependent and neglected child. Consult with psychiatrists, psychologists and attorneys in connection with case objectives. Prepare information and recommendations in connection with court cases and proceedings. Testify in court proceedings. Interpret and implement judicial findings and court orders. Undertake intensive long or short- term treatment plans in areas such as family management, marital counseling, childcare and development. Conduct group sessions with clients. Provide public information on social service programs to the community and special groups. Provide supervision with input for the design of new programs and services. Non-Essential Functions Attend weekly unit meetings and monthly staff meetings. Perform job related duties as assigned or apparent. Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Social Work or Human Services-related field plus one year of professional work experience required or; An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job. Required Certifications/Licenses Valid driver s license and ability to maintain such license and proof of insurance. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Knowledge of individual and group behavior. Knowledge of current principles and practices of social work case management as they apply to the treatment of major behavior problems. Knowledge of the causative factors leading to social maladjustment. Knowledge of the social-economic factors, which promote stable family life and an understanding of the elements, which affect family security. Knowledge of the child welfare laws relating to dependency, neglect and delinquency. Knowledge of the principles of family and marital counseling. Knowledge of the techniques of child placement with emphasis on the complete participation of the parent or guardian. Knowledge and skills of technical social work, casework and community resources. Knowledge and skills of child development, family systems, the dynamics of abuse and issues of separation. Knowledge and skills of legal procedures, court system, mental health and medical practices. Knowledge of Department of Human Services (DHS) rules and regulations. Ability to plan, assesses, and make decisions under pressure. Ability to tolerate high levels of stress. Ability to make independent judgments with minimal consultation. Ability to communicate with and understand the problems faced by families from all cultural and economic levels. Ability to work with a wide variety of families and cultures. Time management skills. Relationships Families needing protective services or requesting child welfare services to determine safety of children, risks of abuse or neglect, and strengths and needs County Attorney, court personnel, and probation to initiate voluntary placements, provide case information, testify, and recommend case disposition. Supervisory Responsibilities No direct supervision of employees. Working Conditions Work is mainly performed in client s homes and agency. Frequent travel may involve exposure to inclement weather conditions, unsanitary conditions in homes and unsafe environments. Direct service provision may require dealing with persons who are hostile, aggressive, abusive or threatening.