Child Protection Social Worker

About Us

At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services(ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program(DSP).

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

This Hiring Pool will be used to fill multiple Permanent, Term, Temporary and Casual opportunities over the next several months. Opportunities can be in the Halifax, Dartmouth and Sackville areas.

We're hiring dedicated Child Protection Social Workers to join our team in the following program areas, including Assessment, Ongoing Support, Children in Care, Consolidated Allegations Investigations Team (CAIT), and the Provincial After Hours Response Team (PART). In this vital role, you will provide a wide array of professional child and family wellbeing services. You will be involved in planning for and supervising children in the care of the Minister, liaising with various partners and communities, and advocating on behalf of children and families.

As a role model, you will support and demonstrate a workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, safe, and supportive. Under the provisions of the Children and Family Services Act (CFSA) and An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth, and Families (FNIM), your role will actively work towards ensuring children's safety and wellbeing, provide ongoing supports to parents and children, and collaborate with program areas to determine appropriate and safe places for children to live.

Primary Accountabilities

Daily, you actively work to engage people and communities to build resilience, address challenges and trauma, and create change. Every day is different, and you will encounter unique challenges with responsibilities ranging from:

Qualifications and Experience

A completed Master of Social Work, or a Bachelor of Social work with at least two (2) years of related experience, along with a driver's license are required. You must be eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW).
If you are a current social work student with anticipated graduation this year, with at least two (2) years of related experience, we encourage you to apply!

You are:

You possess a deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and community resources. You are well-versed in effective intervention strategies. Your excellent problem-solving skills, combined with creative thinking, enhance the support provided to children and families, contributing to their overall well-being and growth.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Working Conditions

A typical workday is between 8am - 5pm. Most of your work will involve meeting with clients in their homes or with service providers, requiring substantial driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. While in the office, you will benefit from a comfortable work environment with flexible working options available.

Positions that support the Provincial After-Hours Response Team (PART) and respond to both child protection and children in care issues outside of regular business…