CHILD WELFARE SPECIALIST

AGENCY STATEMENT & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as State Central Register Call Center Worker.  Under general supervision, this position will provide statewide telephone coverage of a toll-free number for the reporting of alleged child abuse and neglect, making highly responsible decisions regarding intake and screening of information received on initial calls.  The position will also secure all information necessary to accurately diagnose and evaluate reports of alleged child abuse/neglect and all information to complete initial oral reports and subsequent reports relating to child abuse/neglect or other child welfare services.  This position provides a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about children and focused on ensuring the safety of children and youth.  DCFS offers a competitive compensation plan, excellent benefits, and a pension program.  The ideal candidate for this position will have excellent organizational skills and strong communication skills.  We invite you to join our innovative team to help make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families of Illinois.

• Serves as State Central Register Call Center Worker
• Provides telephone counseling services or referral services for crisis situations; maintains familiarity with resources on a statewide basis for purposes of referral
• Provides information necessary to ensure that all alleged reports of child abuse/neglect are entered into the computer terminal
• Monitors incoming written reports for CPS units
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Preferably requires a master's degree in social work; or a master's degree in a related human service field, supplemented by one year of directly related professional casework/ case management experience related to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling and advocacy services or a related field;
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• OR
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• Requires a bachelor's degree in social work and one year of directly related professional casework/ case management experience related to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling and advocacy services or a related field;
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• OR
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• Requires a bachelor's degree in a related human service field and two years of directly related professional casework/ case management experience related to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling and advocacy services or a related field.
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• The college or university issuing a bachelor's or master's degree must be accredited, and the degree program in social work must be approved by the Council on Social Work Education.
• This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

1. Requires the ability to pass a background check

2. Requires physical, visual and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties

3. Requires ability to work mandatory overtime 

EDUCATION MAJOR

social work or a related human service field