Child Protection Specialist

Position Summary & Responsibilities

Child Protection Specialist is responsible for investigating abuse/neglect allegations and working with schools, courts, law enforcement, and community partners to support children and families. Duties include determining safety of children, assessing family needs, making referrals to services such as foster care, family preservation, mental health, and other community resources, and writing court affidavits. The specialist also completes forms in KIDS and KIPS computer systems in a timely manner while managing new intakes.

• Four‑year degree in Human Services or Behavioral Sciences field of study, or education deemed relevant by the agency.
• Valid driver’s license, maintained throughout employment; effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Minimum 2 years of work experience in Children and Family Services; strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills.
• Preferred:
  Licensed Social Worker;
  Master’s in Professional Counseling (Licensed Professional Counselor);
  Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist);
  Licensed Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) professional, or other relevant credential.

• Security clearance: background check (KBI criminal background, welfare fraud, driver’s license, Child/Adult Abuse and Neglect Central Registry). Fingerprinting and FBI check may be required; clearance must be obtained and maintained during employment.
• Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate:
  All employees must obtain a valid certificate within ten (10) days of a job offer. Compliance with Kansas tax law is required.
• E‑Verify: DCF participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with Form I‑9 information to confirm work authorization.

The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability, or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the agency recruiter.