Child Welfare Specialist I

Position Purpose:

The Family and Children Services specialist plays a crucial role in managing child welfare cases, ICWA Cases (Understanding of Indian Child Welfare), conducting investigations into abuse and neglect, and presenting findings in court. This position requires collaboration with the Pueblo of Pojoaque Tribal Court and Tribal Police, as well as drafting case plans and providing essential services like home visits, transportation and referrals. The Case Worker also engages with clients—both voluntarily and through court mandates—to support their case plans, thereby ensuring a comprehensive approach to child welfare under the guidance of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Law & Order Code.

Primary Duties:

Conduct child abuse investigations, Family and Children's Services will provide training and certification in forensic interviewing. Providing and seeking respite care for children as well as working with at risk youth and addressing educational neglect issues for program clients Provide emergency assistance to Pojoaque Police Department in the case of a child abuse investigation Conduct home studies and create family and parenting plans for voluntary and court mandated services for clients. Attend and testify in court hearings Collaborating with various tribal, state and federal programs and organizations to ensure delivery of services to clients Attend Monthly ICWA Meetings & Sub Committee meetings. Attend Annual NICWA Training/ Training opportunities Additionally, the role includes performing other assigned tasks as needed to support the community's needs effectively, other duties as assigned

Knowledge Required:

Practical knowledge of conventional social work principles, practices and ethics Practical knowledge of intervention methodology (crisis management, risk assessment, treatment modalities) Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally Demonstrated ability to record and maintain information concisely, effectively and adhering to the highest standards of confidentiality Demonstrated ability to organize and manage case files effectively and efficiently Demonstrated ability to critically review psychological reports, home studies and/or psycho-social assessments to assist clients in service delivery as well as negotiating service for clients Maintaining sensitivity to Native American culture and traditions Maintaining contact and establishing professional relationships and network with the Bureau of Indian Affairs as well as state and other local agencies Must have experience working with children of all ages

Physical Demands:

Must be licensed to drive a GSA vehicle May need to lift up to 30 pounds when working with families/client or assisting with special events

Supervisory Controls:

The Child Welfare Specialist I works under the direct supervision of the Family and Children's Services Department Director, will be overseen by Child Welfare Specialist II.

Job Related Qualification Standards:

BSW, B.A.

Degree in social work or related field Two years case management or social work experience, preferably in social services and with Tribal communities. Will consider A.A. Degree with a minimum of 5years of experience in social services/case management Valid New Mexico Driver's license is required Must complete and pass a criminal background screening and Drug Screening Must interact professionally with all levels of staff, management and clientele Must be dependable, will be on call weekends on a rotating on-call shift to respond to emergencies. Must be available to travel for emergencies

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person