Community Social Services Technician- CPS

Job Title

Performs specialized paraprofessional and technical work in support of the Child Protective Services program within the Department of Social Services. Provides assistance to social workers in the delivery of services to children and families; performs client contacts, transportation, documentation, record maintenance, and other case support activities; assists with monitoring and coordinating services for children and families; and performs related duties as assigned.

Work involves frequent contact with children, parents, relatives, foster parents, service providers, schools, law enforcement, medical professionals, court personnel, and other community partners. Employees are expected to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with Social Workers and other agency staff.

This position performs technical and supportive functions under the direction and supervision of a Social Worker or CPS Supervisor and does not independently perform functions requiring the professional judgment or statutory authority of a Social Worker.

The following duties are representative of the position and are not intended to be all-inclusive:

• Child Protective Services Case Support
• Client and Family Services
• Documentation and Records
• Court and Community Coordination
• Foster Care and Placement Support
• General Agency Responsibilities

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of human services and social service programs.
• Basic principles of child development and family dynamics.
• Community resources and social service programs.
• Techniques for working with children, families, and individuals experiencing difficult or stressful circumstances.
• Basic interviewing and communication techniques.
• Recordkeeping and documentation practices.
• Confidentiality requirements applicable to social services.
• Basic computer operations and data entry procedures.
• Agency policies, procedures, and applicable laws and regulations governing assigned responsibilities.

Ability to:

• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with children, families, coworkers, and community partners.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
• Recognize and report significant changes or concerns regarding the safety and well-being of children.
• Follow written and oral instructions accurately.
• Maintain accurate and complete records and documentation.
• Enter information accurately into electronic databases.
• Organize and prioritize multiple assignments and meet established deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in handling sensitive information.
• Remain calm and professional when dealing with difficult, emotional, or confrontational situations.
• Exercise sound judgment within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
• Work independently while maintaining appropriate communication with supervisory and professional staff.
• Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Operate a motor vehicle safely and maintain a valid North Carolina driver's license.

High school diploma or GED and two years of experience in human services, social services, child welfare, healthcare, education, behavioral health, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
• Experience working with children and families.
• Experience working in Child Protective Services, foster care, or another child welfare program.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, abuse, neglect, poverty, substance use, domestic violence, or other significant family challenges.
• Experience with electronic case management or social services information systems.

• Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina driver's license.
• Must be able to successfully complete required background checks and agency screening.
• Must be eligible to work with children and vulnerable populations in accordance with applicable law and agency requirements.
• May be required to complete state-mandated Child Welfare training and other required training within established time frames.
• Must maintain required certifications and training as applicable to assigned duties.
• May be required to work non-traditional hours based on the needs of the Child…