Child Welfare Specialist I-NNWS

Child Welfare Specialist I

Nak Nu We Sha (NNWS)

Department of Human Services

Hourly Wage: $22.17-$24.97/Regular/Full-Time

Performs professional-level child welfare case management services for children and families experiencing safety and risk concerns. This position manages moderate to complex cases, including abuse and neglect matters, family conflict, substance use concerns, and cases requiring court involvement.

Conducts safety and risk assessments and develops safety plans to ensure child protection. Exercises professional judgment in case planning and service delivery consistent with tribal, federal, and state laws and policies.

After successfully completing a structured on-the-job training program and demonstrating competency in required child welfare practice areas, advancement to Child Welfare Specialist II may occur upon successful completion of training, education requirements, and demonstrated proficiency.

Examples of Work Performed:

Prepare court reports that include: Case history and relevant background, Safety and risk assessment, summaries, Documentation of Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) active efforts, Service plan compliance and progress updates, Recommendations regarding case direction and permanency

Provides written and oral testimony in Yakama Nation Children's Court as required.

Participate in Family Team Decision Making (FTDM) meetings, Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committee (LICWAC), and multi-disciplinary staffing. Ensures culturally responsive practice consistent with Yakama Nation traditions and values.

Coordinates permanency planning efforts, including reunification, guardianship, long-term foster care, and other permanency arrangements. Works toward timely permanency in accordance with court mandates and policy requirements.

Work may involve unusual hours and after-hours crisis response and may include overnight situations.

Assists with case management activities for assigned families.

Assists in developing and monitoring service plans with measurable objectives under supervisory guidance.

Conducts home visits and health and safety checks as assigned and under direction.

Assists in preparing case documentation and supporting materials for court reports.

May attend court hearings to observe proceedings and support assigned cases.

Coordinates visitation schedules and may supervise visitations as assigned.

Refers clients to community resources and service providers.

Maintains case records, reports, and required forms in prescribed agency formats.

Coordinates and may provide transportation to clients.

Participates in required Core Indian Child Welfare Act training and other assigned professional development activities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Basic knowledge of child welfare principles and case management practices.

Knowledge of Yakama Nation culture and traditions.

Basic knowledge of Yakama Tribal systems utilized to deliver services to children and families.

Working knowledge of tribal, federal, and state laws governing services to vulnerable children and families.

Working knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

Basic knowledge of Title LXXX (80) Yakama Nation Children's Code and willingness to develop proficiency in statutory timelines, court procedures, and documentation requirements.

Knowledge of risk assessment principles and safety planning practices.

Ability to learn court procedures and required documentation standards.

Ability to follow policies, procedures, and supervisory direction.

Ability to maintain professionalism with clients, co-workers, and the public.

Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form.

Ability to organize assigned work tasks and meet deadlines.

Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Ability to work in stressful or crisis situations with supervision and guidance.

Minimum Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED required.

Must be actively working toward an Associate's Degree (AA) in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field.

Experience may include courtroom support, legal documentation preparation, case aide work, probation support, or similar functions.

Must maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to Yakama Nation Personnel Policies and chain of command.

Must possess a valid CPR/HIV card or ability to obtain one within six months of hire.

Must complete at least 16 hours of child welfare training annually.

Required to pass a pre-employment background check.

Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.

Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit with Defensive Driving Course Certificate (to be updated every 2 years).

Preferred Requirements:

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Human Services, or related field.

Minimum Two (2) years experience working in or closely with a court system, legal environment, law enforcement agency, child welfare program, or related human services field preferred.

Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.