Licensing Specialist - Social Services Specialist IV

Division of Child Welfare:
Provider Services Unit

The position is located in the Division of Child Welfare, Provider Services Unit, responsible for the ongoing implementation of child welfare services in Colorado and oversight of private 24‑hour childcare facilities across the state.

Delegated staff authority for licensing oversight of 24‑hour child care facilities across Colorado. The specialist consults with agency management, implements audit and licensing processes, provides technical assistance, evaluates compliance, issues inspection reports, fines, authorizations, and adverse actions, and supports adoption practice and care quality.

• Licensing of agencies and facilities and technical assistance to improve compliance with state and federal rules.
• Conduct building and site inspections, evaluate staff training, treatment planning, medication administration, and financial stability of facilities.
• Research and apply adoption best practices, including SAFE standards and national safety regulations.
• Compile data for corrective actions, recommend adverse licensing actions, and provide expert opinions on safety concerns.
• Collaborate with state divisions and county agencies to develop and refine licensing protocols and policy revisions.
• Evaluate and approve initial and ongoing licensing, ensuring compliance with CDPHE, zoning, fire departments, and other external entities.
• Travel within Colorado as needed, including overnight stays, and maintain a home office for remote work.
• Perform other duties assigned by leadership.

• Seven (7) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the assigned responsibilities; OR
• A combination of related education and/or experience totalling seven (7) years.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or Sociology.
• Two (2) or more years of work experience related to human services or licensing.
• Knowledge of child welfare policies, residential best practices, licensing regulations and statutes.
• Experience in an advisory or consultative role.
• Proven ability to conduct research, analyze data, and report on complex issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills across varied audiences.
• Ability to establish collaborative partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with CCCLS, TRAILS, I‑LINX and similar databases.
• Knowledge of Volume 7 Rules and Regulations.
• Experience with ABA approaches for children/youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

• Full background checks for all CDHS employees who have direct contact with vulnerable persons.
• Required personal vehicle for frequent travel within Colorado; overnight and extended travel may be necessary.
• Remote work from home address; employee must maintain a home office and reliable internet.

• Retirement benefits via PERA (defined benefit or contribution) plus 401(k) and 457 plans.
• Health, dental, and vision plans.
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution.
• Paid life insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions.

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to increasing a “Colorado for ALL” of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage candidates from all backgrounds and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and serve them.

In all aspects of the employment process, the State provides employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.