Family Services Specialist

Family Services Specialist

Department of Social Services – Division of Child Protection Services, State of South Dakota.

Location:

Yankton, SD.

Job . Salary: $26.62 hourly plus adjustments based on qualifications. Pay Grade: I.

Employment type:

Full‑time. Closing date: open until filled.

• Conduct assessments with families from diverse backgrounds alleging child maltreatment; analyze danger threats.
• Provide intervention services after a determination that home conditions threaten child safety.
• Implement ongoing safety management through out‑of‑home placement or in‑home safety plans.
• Work with the court system, including testifying when children are placed in state custody.
• Find, recommend, and monitor foster and adoptive homes for children.
• Plan cases, assess needs of resource families, and provide support services.
• Identify and locate relatives for potential placement resources.
• Respond to emergencies regarding reports of alleged child abuse or neglect on a 24‑hour basis.

Duties are performed in departmental offices, client homes, and courtrooms. Candidates may encounter high‑level stress, emotional situations, physical danger, and contagious diseases. This position may require lifting up to 30 lbs, a valid driver’s license, flexible scheduling, overtime, travel, and overnight stays.

A bachelor's degree in a human service–related field is preferred; relevant experience may be considered.

• Theories and concepts related to culture, child development, family connections, and family dynamics.
• Knowledge of placement resources and potential conflicts for children in placement.
• Understanding of the impact of separation on children involuntarily removed from families.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with compassion, respect, and tact.
• Active listening, eliciting needed information, and effective communication.
• Proficiency with computerized data systems.
• Clear, concise documentation and reporting.
• Effective planning, organization, and prioritization of tasks.
• Data gathering, logical reasoning, and problem‑solving skills.
• Initiative and minimal supervision.
• Observation and accurate assessment of situations.

Attach a resume to your application. The position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference (ARSD 55:10:02:08). Successful applicants will undergo a background investigation and abuse‑and‑neglect screening. The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas. All hires must verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form I‑9.

$0 premium optional employee health insurance, eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave, dental and vision options, and retirement benefits (Class A under SDRS).

Must apply online. Email resumes or submissions are not accepted. Apply at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-stateofsout

"An Equal Opportunity Employer."