Social Services Specialist

position number:
county: pulaski
posting end date: august 27, 2026

the social services specialist plays a critical role in supporting the safety, permanency, and well-being of arkansas children and youth through quality case management. Dcfs is committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment. Through quality case management, engagement with families, and collaboration with community partners, the social services specialist helps strengthen families, support permanency, and promote positive outcomes for children and youth.

• a bachelor’s degree, experience in working with children and/or families, some experience with community engagement or community resources.
• organizational and time management skills are a must.

• job series: social services programs - career path
• classification: social services specialist
• class code: ssp
  16p
• pay grade: sgs
  06
• salary range: $52,137 - $77,163

the social services specialist provides case management, client advocacy, and program support for individuals and families in need. This role requires assessing client needs, connecting individuals to community resources, and maintaining compliance with social services policies.

• assess client eligibility and provide individualized case management.
• develop service plans tailored to client needs.
• conduct home visits, interviews, and risk assessments.
• maintain detailed case records and documentation.
• advocate for clients in legal, medical, and housing matters.

• knowledge of crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
• knowledge of arkansas social service laws, policies, and regulations
• ability to analyze client needs and create action plans
• understanding of behavioral health and protective services

• minimum of two years of work experience in human services programs or public service.
• required to have a background check and child/adult maltreatment registry check.

n/aother job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

the state of arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.