Interview children and parents to collect evidence of abuse or neglect, conduct risk assessment to determine validity of report and decide on appropriate action to ensure safety of children. Obtain medical treatment, initiate court action, or arrange for substitute care placement for children when necessary. Identify specific needs of family, refer toappropriate resources and provide individual and family counseling to rehabilitate the family. Depending on assigned tasks, employees in this class are in regular contact, in person and by phone, with clients to provide counseling and treatment, investigate complaints, monitor care of children, and provide other necessary services. They also meet regularly with service providers to offer consultation or check for compliance with requirements.
Employees have regular contact with attorneys to discuss client rights, needs, and services.
Work is reviewed through conferences and review of written case records and reports to ensure that services are appropriate and in conformance with rules and policies. State and Federal laws and regulations mandate specific timelines and procedures for dealing with children in substitute care and provide guidelines for conducting abuse investigations, obtaining court involvement, and filing petitions for termination of parental rights. Administrative Rules and agency policies are used to ensure compliance with agency standards and determine appropriate actions required. Some positions in the class require the willingness to travel to client homes, private care facilities, foster homes, or court hearings and to work extended or weekend hours as necessary. Basic knowledge of behavior management techniques.