Description

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) was created to be a comprehensive agency exclusively dedicated to the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children, youth, and families regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other socioeconomic factors. We believe our workforce should reflect the communities we serve, and are actively searching for candidates that reflect that diversity.

We're looking for a Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS) Court Worker Specialist to join our team to provide court services to families, working toward the common goal of eliminating child and youth outcome disparities based on race and ethnicity. Our vision is that "All Washington's children and youth grow up safe and healthy-thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community."

The Opportunity:
Our Field Operations Division, at our Puyallup Office is searching for a committed CFWS Court Worker Specialist who will be responsible for specializing in Juvenile dependency court services. This position is responsible for all aspects of filing dependency petitions when children are not safe and need to enter into out-of-home care. This includes completing and submitting discovery, preparation of cases for court presentation, attending court hearings related to establishing dependency, and consulting with the Assistant Attorney General. You will write legal petitions, initial court reports, review court orders, assess complex family situations, and offer services in collaboration with the assigned CPS Investigations/CPS-FAR/FVS and CFWS Social Service Specialists. If you have strong writing and organization skills and want to have a positive impact on youth and families, we encourage you to apply and bring your skills to our team!

Some of what you will get to do:

• Identify and develop community support and resources to children, youth, and families.
• Draft dependency petitions, initial court reports, and court orders prior to 75-day hearings.
• Prepare cases for court presentation for shelter care, dependency fact-finding, and dispositional hearings.
• Attend court proceedings and hearings including shelter care, contested shelter care, and settlement conferences.
• Locate and serve parents with legal documents and explain the dependency court process to guardians, parents, and caregivers.
• Schedule and facilitate case conferences and provide support to parents applying for an attorney.
• Provide families with information regarding the court process and resources needed prior to shelter care.
• Submit interim visitation referrals based on ordered visits at time of shelter care, and assist with covering initial visitation.
• Submit parent service referrals prior to dependency requests.

What we are looking for (Required Qualifications):
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2).
OR
A Master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field AND two years of social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
A Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field, AND three years of social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.

NOTE: A two-year Master’s degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
NOTE: Incumbent must attend all mandatory DCYF training to include Social Service Specialist Regional Core Training requirements within twelve months of initial appointment.

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:

• Ability to effectively communicate and communicate and comprehend with management, peers, clients, community colleagues, and the public.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply current applicable laws, rules, and policies on delivery of child protective and child welfare services in Washington State.
• Ability to partner effectively with community professionals to develop and maintain resource teams to support children and families.
• Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with child caregivers and include caregivers in the case planning process.
• Ability to evaluate, analyze and assess risk and safety in all cases as defined by law and best practice.
• Ability to access and utilize agency software programs.

How do I apply?
Complete your full applicant profile with your work history and highest education details, and include a copy of your college transcripts. Resume’s and cover letters are not required but recommended.

Supplemental Information:
**Per Governor Inslee's Proclamation 21-14 (Download PDF reader) state employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Please note that any offer of employment is contingent upon you providing verification of your vaccine status, having an approved medical accommodation, or having an approved religious accommodation. No start date will be approved until you have either verified your vaccine status or have an approved accommodation**

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.

The initial screening will be based on the content and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required. Applications with comments such as "see attachments" or "N/A" in the supplemental question responses will be considered incomplete.

DCYF is an equal opportunity employer and supports equity, diversity, inclusion, and respect.

Need accommodation throughout the application/interview process? Unable to apply online? Contact the Recruitment team at dcyf.jobs@dcyf.wa.gov or (360) 280-3705 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf at 800-833-6388

Experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application? Call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com.

To take advantage of the Veteran's preference please attach your DD-214, member 4 long-form, or your NGB-22. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching.

2022-15850