Family Services Specialist - CPS Investigator

Family Services Specialist – Child Protective Services Investigations

Driver License Requirement: You must hold a valid State of Virginia driver’s license or submit a certified copy of a DMV report from your previous state of residence.

This role assesses and investigates allegations of child abuse and/or neglect while providing services to at‑risk families and children. Works with ancillary agencies to enforce child protective services laws, coordinate services, prepare court affidavits/reports, testify, and manage a CPS caseload within Virginia State Code time frames. Must multi‑task, respond to crisis, assist co‑workers, and work outside normal hours, including participation in a rotating after‑hours beeper team.

Non‑exempt position.

• Interview clients to assess needs and extent of concerns.
• Identify problems, counsel clients, confer with supervisor to develop service plans.
• Maintain client records throughout service relationships.
• Make referrals to agencies (clinics, employment services, vocational rehabilitation, etc.).
• Collaborate with courts (juvenile, domestic relations, circuit) and other agencies.
• Provide protection and care to abandoned, abused, and neglected children and adults, including emergency situations.
• Work with abusive or neglecting parents/families to effect changes in home settings.
• Make decisions on removal of children and recommendations on adult institutionalization.
• Study homes for day‑care, foster care, adoption placement, or foster/adoptive placements.
• Prepare written reports of services, findings, and actions.
• Represent agency on multidisciplinary teams.
• Participate in a 24‑hour on‑call rotation.

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or any field with at least two (2) years of related experience.
• Ability to read and interpret laws, policies, regulations, safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to present information to managers, clients, and the public.
• Reasoning ability: define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Possession of a valid driver’s permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia (or certified DMV report).
• Ready to work outside normal hours and respond to routine and emergency situations.

EEO Statement: The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability employer. We celebrate and embrace diversity and are committed to an inclusive work environment.