Social Worker - Cps Access Unit

La Crosse County Human Services is seeking a Social Worker with professionalism, compassion, and commitment to child and family safety to join our Child Protective Services (CPS) Access Unit.

In this vital front-line role, you will be the first point of contact for community members reporting concerns of abuse, neglect, or requesting support. You’ll gather, assess, and document information in accordance with CPS Access and Initial Assessment Standards to make informed recommendations regarding whether statutory criteria for assessment are met. Working closely with the Access Supervisor and CPS team, you’ll ensure high-quality screening, effective communication, and consistent decision-making that promote safety and stability for children and families.

This position includes periodic after-hours on-call coverage and may assist with other CPS functions as needed.

FLSA:
Exempt. This is an entry level Social Work position in the Human Services Department under the Family & Children's Section. The majority of the work in Child Protective Services (CPS) is centered around building relationships with parents/caregivers, who may struggle with personal issues such as mental health and/or substance abuse, and who are often involuntarily involved with CPS. Through these relationships the social worker will work to identify the root causes of the behaviors or conditions within the family that are creating the safety concern for the child(ren) and develop a treatment plan around the needs of the family.

This position provides case management, services, and support to parents and/or caregivers so as to assist them in being able to demonstrate whether or not they are able to safely parent and meet the needs of their child(ren). This position also provides court related services in accordance with the Children's Code (Chapter 48) as it pertains to children in need of protection or services.

Work is performed under supervision of a Human Services Supervisor.

• Demonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactions
• Speak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpoints
• Actively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectives

• Set clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomes
• Seek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable results
• Hold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoring

• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growth
• Provide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potential
• Recognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and team

• Understand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goals
• Develop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long‑term objectives
• Connect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfully

• Navigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectives
• Adapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environment
• Make critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from others

• Communicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organization
• Influence others through coaching, consulting, and team‑minded thinking
• Develop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholders

• Understand and address the needs and concerns of the community
• Incorporate community perspectives into decision‑making processes
• Drive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organization

• Show self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situations
• Seek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacks
• Balance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with others

Works as a member of a team and utilizes a family‑centered,…