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State of Missouri

Prevention Unit - Associate/Social Services Specialist (I/II/III)

State of Missouri, Des Moines, Iowa, United States

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Prevention Unit – Associate/Social Services Specialist (I/II/III) Join to apply for the

Prevention Unit – Associate/Social Services Specialist (I/II/III)

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State of Missouri .

Job Location:

Two positions; base in Jefferson County and Stoddard County.

The Department of Social Services partners with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth and move families to self‑sufficiency so that Missourians can lead safe, healthy and productive lives.

Why You’ll Love This Position Are you passionate about helping people? Do you love working with children and families? Do you enjoy assisting people in difficult circumstances? The Department of Social Services – Children’s Division cares for at‑risk children and families by providing family preservation and reunification services, investigating allegations of abuse and neglect, and conducting foster care and adoption case management.

Responsibilities

Refer families and children, when necessary, to other community resources or higher‑level staff.

Evaluate each household member’s needs and eligibility for social services through personal and collateral interviews.

Assist individuals in accessing available agency and community resources.

Deliver and/or coordinate preventative services to identified families who are agreeable to services.

Assist families to attain and maintain their stability through appropriate casework and home management or referral for more skilled counseling treatment.

Provide and/or coordinate services with parents facing crises and whose children are at risk for abuse/neglect to facilitate behavioral changes or methods of childcare.

Conduct studies and provide treatment services as ordered by a court or after referral by agency staff per policy.

Interact with law enforcement, juvenile officers, other public officials, and community organizations regarding family and children issues.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate Social Services Specialist – Bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited college or university. A degree in Social Work or comparable human services field preferred; unrelated Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience and/or competencies may be considered, plus a valid vehicle operator’s license.

Social Services Specialist (II) – Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. A degree in Social Work or comparable human services field preferred; unrelated Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience and/or competencies may be considered. One or more years of professional experience in protective services, including casework/case management in investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family‑centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in‑home family crisis intervention services, plus a valid vehicle operator’s license.

Social Services Specialist (III) – Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. A degree in Social Work or comparable human services field preferred; unrelated Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience and/or competencies may be considered. Three or more years of professional experience in protective services, including casework/case management in investigation of abuse or neglect; coordination of foster care, adoptions, and family‑centered services; treatment/rehabilitation; and/or providing in‑home family crisis intervention services, plus a valid vehicle operator’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

Excellent problem‑solving and time management skills.

Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed.

Benefits The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. Your total compensation is more than the dollars you receive in your paycheck.

For more information, visit the Total Compensation Calculator on our website.

Contact: CD-HR@dss.mo.gov

The State of Missouri is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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