Initial Assessment (IA) - Child Protective Services Worker

Summary:

This position is responsible for receiving, assessing, and responding to reports of child abuse and neglect in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes and agency policy. The role includes conducting initial assessments, ensuring child safety, coordinating services, and collaborating with families and community partners. The position also participates in Access (intake) functions and after-hours On-Call responsibilities. Essential Functions of the

Position:

Initial Assessment (CPS) Conduct safety-focused interventions to assess child safety, caregiver protective capacities, and risk factors to inform case decisions. Respond to reports involving children in need of protection or services and address immediate safety concerns. Assess for present and impending danger and develop and implement safety plans as needed. Develop case plans and complete required documentation in accordance with state standards, agency policy, and legal requirements. Prepare for and participate in court proceedings, including providing accurate testimony and written reports. Coordinate with families and multidisciplinary partners (law enforcement, schools, medical providers, legal system, and community agencies) to address safety and service needs. Offer voluntary services by guiding families in identifying and accessing formal and informal community supports. Build and maintain collaborative working relationships with community providers, law enforcement, school districts, legal partners, Tribal partners, and other stakeholders. Participate in multidisciplinary coordination to support child safety, permanency, and family stability. Access (Intake) Functions Receive, screen, and document reports of alleged abuse and/or neglect in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes (§48.981) and agency policy. Forward reports to the supervisor or designated lead for screening decisions. Provide information, guidance, and referrals to individuals contacting the Department. Conduct initial interviews to determine the nature of concerns, identify service needs, and direct individuals to the appropriate unit or community resource. On-Call Responsibilities Provide after-hours response for child protection and juvenile delinquency emergencies. Assess immediate safety and make timely decisions regarding protective actions, including decisions related to taking a child/youth into custody. Coordinate emergency placements and/or juvenile detention when necessary. Collaborate with law enforcement and other professionals to ensure safe and appropriate emergency response.

Qualification Requirements:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required at the time of hire or for the continuation of employment.

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human and Family Studies, Criminal Justice or closely related human services field is required.
• Professional case work at a level consistent with a County Human Services Worker, demonstrating knowledge of social work principles, ethics, boundaries, and professional documentation.
• Ability to pass required background checks.
• A valid Driver's license is required.
• Social Worker Certification is preferred, but not required.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of child welfare and/or youth justice systems, including Wisconsin Children's Code (Ch. 48 & 938), DCF standards (Access, Initial Assessment, Ongoing, Safety), and WICWA.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice, family systems, and the impact of AODA on individuals and families.
• Ability to assess safety, risk, and protective capacities and make sound, timely decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional judgment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with diverse partners, and build working relationships with families, staff, and community systems.
• Ability to document clearly and accurately and provide testimony in court.
• Ability to follow direction and implement agency policies and procedures.
• Proficiency in computer systems and electronic documentation, including experience with systems such as eWiSACWIS.
• Demonstrated cultural responsiveness and commitment to equitable practice.

State training will be provided as required to meet standards for specific job duties.

Physical Demands:

Physical demands of this position vary from day to day and are highly dependent on the particular function being fulfilled on that day. The physical and work environments described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. Ability to work in office setting, using appropriate office equipment (copy/fax machines, computer, printer, telephone, calculator, etc.) Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry and lift as needed; occasionally this position may be required to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing skilled movements, such as keyboard use. Ability to travel independently to family homes, various offices within Government Center, and throughout the community. Exposure to blood borne pathogens is considered low To download the required application, please visit www.burnettcountywi.gov and click on

Employment Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

Up to $26.24 per hour

Benefits:

457(b) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person