Social Services Specialist

position number:

county: white

posting end date: august 26, 2026

location: searcy, ar, us, 72143

category: ar dept of human services

anticipated starting salary: $52,137.07

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.

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/a other 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.

plus, working for the state has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more.

• pension
• maternity leave
• paid state holidays
• much more

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.

little rock

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