Child Protection Social Worker

Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD) is a large and diverse department that provides programs and services for child and family wellbeing, employment support, income assistance, homelessness and supportive housing, and disability support. We advocate for vulnerable Nova Scotians and work across the province to achieve shared outcomes.

We are hiring dedicated Child Protection Social Workers for Permanent, Term, Temporary and Casual opportunities in the Halifax, Dartmouth and Sackville areas. The role is part of the Assessment, Ongoing Support, Children in Care, Consolidated Allegations Investigations Team (CAIT), and Provincial After Hours Response Team (PART) program areas. The Social Worker will provide professional child and family wellbeing services, plan and supervise children in the care of the Minister, liaise with partners and communities, and advocate for children and families.

• Assess child safety and wellbeing concerns and work with families and communities to address them.
• Collaborate with and support individuals and families.
• Plan and develop case plans with families.
• Work closely with the community and advocate for connections to community resources.
• Participate in risk assessments, court testimonies, and evaluations.
• Plan with and supervise children in care of the Minister.

• A Master of Social Work, or a Bachelor of Social Work with at least two (2) years of related experience.
• Driver's license.
• Eligibility for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW).
• Current social work student with anticipated graduation this year and at least two (2) years of related experience is encouraged to apply.

• A strong team player.
• Empowered to drive positive change.
• Compassionate, reliable, and resourceful.

Possess deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, trauma‑informed care, and community resources. Be well‑versed in effective intervention strategies and possess excellent problem‑solving and creative thinking skills.

Typical workday is 8 am–5 pm. The role requires regular client appointments in homes or with service providers, substantial driving, and potential work in adverse weather. The position may involve working with the Provincial After‑Hours Response Team (PART) outside regular business hours, typically 4:30 pm–8:30 am, including weekends and holidays. Physical and emotional demands warrant resilience, ability to work under pressure, and commitment to culturally inclusive practice.

• Career growth opportunities through coaching, training, and advancement within Nova Scotia.
• Reimbursement of registration fees to the NS College of Social Workers.
• Flexible working arrangements including modified work weeks.
• Overtime and shift premiums for weekend and after‑hours work.
• Travel and car allowance.
• Three (3) weeks vacation to start, and annual pay progression.
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs.
• Health, dental, life insurance and disability coverage.
• Defined Pension Benefit Plan.

PRCW 13 – PRCW 16

$2,792.85 – $3,905.61 Bi‑Weekly

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia welcomes applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotian, Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in occupations or positions where they are under‑represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, please self‑identify on your electronic application.

We are committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations on grounds protected by the Human Rights Act. Please contact  if you require an accommodation during recruitment.