Child and Family Services Specialist Trainee - Adult Protective Services

Job Posting

JR Child and Family Services Specialist Trainee – Adult Protective Services (Open)

Health & Human Services – Agency 25

Lexington, NE

$21.836 (July 1 rates will increase to $22.327 for training and $26.183 after training)

06-18-2026

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking an outstanding individual who is interested in making a difference in the lives of vulnerable adults in the Lexington area as a Child and Family Services Specialist Trainee – Adult Protective Services. We are looking for individuals for this essential position who are mission driven, action oriented, and possess excellent communication skills.

Trainees are hired at $21.836 and promoted. July 1 rates will increase to $22.327 for training and $26.183 after training.

You have the passion; we have the opportunities – let’s make a difference for Nebraskans!

In this position, you will serve as a case manager for vulnerable adults referred to the Department of Health and Human Services.

• Investigate allegations of abuse, neglect, self‑neglect, and financial exploitation, visit homes and nursing homes, conduct safety assessments, determine vulnerability, establish safety plans, and initiate court interventions.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans, authorize, and coordinate appropriate services.
• Prepare cases with appropriate legal staff and testify in court.
• Develop community resources; work with law enforcement, mental health, and medical professionals; inform the public of protection and safety services.
• Perform crisis intervention.
• Prepare documentation and correspondence.

Casework may be with adults 18 years of age and older who have substantial mental and/or functional impairments. Utilizing a state vehicle for regular travel will be a frequent duty for this position. Promotion to Child & Family Services Specialist will occur after successful completion of required classroom and on‑the‑job training programs.

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or other closely related area. Consideration will be given to applicants who are enrolled in the final semester of their Bachelor's Degree. Promotion to the Child and Family Services Specialist classification is contingent on successful completion of degree requirements and required training.

Previous Children and Family Services Specialist experience with the state of Nebraska. Experience working with vulnerable adults.

Valid driver’s license or the ability to provide independent authorized transportation is required. Travel for face‑to‑face visits with children, families, service providers, and other work‑related appointments may be required depending on caseload location. Utilization of a state vehicle may be provided depending on office location.

Knowledge of family life issues and dynamics; community services; adult behavior.

• Skill in interviewing clients to collect and elicit essential information and assess client’s needs and progress; openly and honestly discussing concerns with others in a non‑judgmental way.
• Ability to learn the importance of commitment to individuals and families; protect confidential information; communicate effectively with community service providers.
• Applicant should possess good oral and written communication skills, abilities to interpret and apply state and federal laws and standards to technical narrative material; learn and uphold the objectives, philosophies and functions of the Children and Family Services Division; and establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with managers/administrators, community organizations, and the public.
• Must be available to be on call on a rotating basis.
• Must be able to be reached on a work cell phone 24/7 for a period of one week while on call. If contacted while on call, you must be able to go out into the field to investigate at any given time.

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation. Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).#benefits