The City of Richmond Department of Social Services is seeking highly qualified candidates to fill the position of Family Services Specialist I - CPS in the Division of Children, Families & Adults. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of children and following up on reports of abuse and neglect of children.

• Ensuring safety of children in the department's care; 
• Responding to hotline reports; 
• Investigating alleged cases of abuse and neglect; 
• Providing or coordinating interventions and services to families at risk or families; where children have been removed; 
• Conducting interviews to gather evidence; 
• Petitioning the court for removals and protective orders; 
• Preparing documentation and recommendations for court; 
• Testifying and executing court-orders; 
• Developing service plans; 
• Establishing and maintaining individual case records; 
• Transporting clients to ensure their welfare or facilitate the delivery of appropriate services; 
• Supervising cases, monitoring progress and compliance with court orders and providing case management for children and families. 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
 
Considerable knowledge in principles and practices in the human services field, including knowledge of programs, social-economic trends, and behaviors that impact the delivery of human services; and State and local policies and procedures, laws, and regulations.

Demonstrated skills in advocating and counseling; administering individual and family assessments and interpreting results; Interviewing; Case management, including reporting and documenting; Oral/written communication; and conducting forensic interviews.

Demonstrated ability in understanding and interpreting policies, procedures, regulations, and laws; thinking critically; manage time effectively; make sound judgments; problem solve; and analyze, assess, and evaluate data.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

PREFERRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
 

• Two (2) or more years of Social Work experience working with families;
• Advanced computer, written and oral communication skills;
• Knowledge of best practices and policies used throughout the reunification and permanency process;
• Working knowledge of the Commonwealth of Virginia court system;
• Proficient crisis intervention techniques and case management skills;
• Effectively develop relationships among a diverse, socio-economic class of clients;
• Ability to read, write, and speak Spanish fluently.