Child and Family Services Specialist; CFSS-North Platte

Child and Family Services Specialist (CFSS) – North Platte, NE

Agency:
Health & Human Services – Agency 25. Salary:
Trainee starts at $21.836, increases to $22.327 July 1, then to $26.183 after training completion.

We are seeking compassionate individuals to support children and families facing abuse or neglect issues. The role involves case management, safety assessment, coordination with legal and community partners, and supporting permanency and well‑being of children.

• Serve as a case manager for families referred to DHHS.
• Conduct home visits and comprehensive safety assessments in diverse community settings.
• Advocate for the well‑being of children and families while respecting cultural and individual diversity.
• Apply family‑centered practices and actively involve families in decision‑making.
• Collaborate with the legal system and other partners to support case permanency goals.
• Utilize Structured Decision Making (SDM) tools to inform safety planning and case decisions.
• Write timely, accurate, and professional documentation for internal and legal use.
• Connect families to formal services and informal supports based on assessed needs.
• Promote normalcy and permanency for children in care.
• Apply trauma‑informed and least‑restrictive approaches to strengthen family functioning and resilience.

Training schedule:
Monday‑Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM. Occasional after‑hours and on‑call duties (weeknights, weekends, holidays) may be required. Following completion, flexible hours are available, including evenings to accommodate families.

Roles may involve entering homes in poor or unsanitary conditions and dealing with emotionally difficult situations. Training and protocols support staff safety. Staff may be required to care for children temporarily while coordinating transitions to safe placements.

• Minimum:
  Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or related field. Final‑semester students are considered.
• Preferred:
  Experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, or case management; internships with human services/child welfare agencies.
• Valid driver’s license required.

• Vacation and sick leave accrue immediately upon hire.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Agency‑backed retirement plan with employer match.
• Supportive leadership and team culture.
• Opportunities for internal advancement and promotion.

The State of Nebraska values diversity and promotes inclusion. We hire without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or genetics. All job classifications and levels are open to all qualified individuals.