Social Service Worker (Public Child Welfare Agency)

Position Summary

The Social Service Worker responds to reports of child abuse, neglect, and dependency; conducts safety and risk assessments; develops and monitors case plans; provides services to children and families; and coordinates with courts, law enforcement, schools, and community providers. The worker ensures the safety and permanency of children while supporting families through assessment, intervention, case management, and referral to appropriate services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Responds to reports of abuse, neglect, and dependency; conducts interviews with children, families, and collateral contacts.
• Completes home visits, safety assessments, family assessments, case reviews, and other required documentation within SACWIS and other designated systems.
• Determines child safety and takes protective action when necessary, including removal of children and arranging appropriate placements.
• Facilitates and monitors family visitation, parent education, and service referrals.
• Prepares and submits court reports; testifies in hearings as needed; collaborates with prosecutors and law enforcement.
• Participates in family team meetings, case staffings, and multidisciplinary team reviews.
• Maintains client confidentiality and adheres to agency and state policies.
• Provides transportation for children and families when necessary.
• Maintains licensure, certifications, and ongoing training requirements.
• Participates in on-call rotation as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

In accordance with OAC 5153.112 and OAC 5101:2-33-55, a Social Service Worker employed by a PCSA shall possess one of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a human services-related field, including but not limited to psychology, sociology, early childhood development, criminal justice, or education; OR
• Bachelor’s degree in any field AND at least two years of experience in a human services-related position; OR
• Associate's degree in human services-related field; OR
• Completion of at least sixty (60) semester credit hours or the equivalent towards a degree in human services-related studies from an accredited institution of higher education; OR
• Completion of at least five (5) years in a human services-related occupation.

Additional requirements:

• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Must possess a valid Ohio driver’s license and maintain insurability under the County’s vehicle insurance policy.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and community resources.
• Knowledge of federal and state child welfare laws, including Ohio statutes and rules governing children services.
• Skill in interviewing, crisis intervention, and case management.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and cultural competence.
• Ability to maintain detailed and timely documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, courts, and professional partners.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to emotionally charged or hostile individuals and situations.
• Frequent travel for home visits, court hearings, and training.
• Requires ability to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally and navigate varied home environments.
• Work involves exposure to inclement weather, hazardous driving conditions, and potential environmental risks.

Additional Information

This position description is not exhaustive and may be revised at the discretion of the appointing authority. Employees are expected to perform duties as assigned to meet the needs of the agency.

Job Types: Full-time, Internship

Pay: From $21.06 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Prescription drug insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you comfortable conducting home visits and working directly with families in situations involving abuse, neglect, or dependency, which may include supervising visitations and ensuring child safety?
• This position requires participation in an on-call rotation, flexible scheduling, and occasional evenings/weekends. Are you able and willing to meet these requirements?

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Required)

Work Location: In person