Social Worker/Case Manager

Social Worker/Case Manager: Intake & Assessment Unit 

Under the general supervision of the Family Services Supervisor, provides primary intake duties as defined in Chapter 48 of the Wisconsin State Statutes to conduct child maltreatment investigations alongside child safety assessments. Works closely with community providers, law enforcement, and social workers to assess child safety and make CPS intake decisions

The primary function of this position is CPS Initial Assessment. This position is cross-trained on CPS intake and juvenile intake in order to meet the statutory requirements for intake under 48.067 and 938.067.

Child Protective Services Initial Assessment Duties: In accordance with Chapter 48, conducts maltreatment investigations to determine if maltreatment occurred and to make a child safety decision under the WI Safety Intervention Standards. The investigation is completed within 60 days of the social worker receiving the case. Face to face interviews are conducted to collect evidence and information to make safety and maltreatment determinations. This position works closely with law enforcement to conduct these investigations. The social worker will use the information and evidence collected to determine if the child(ren) are in need of protection or services, if so, then the social worker will prepare necessary court documents to file a petition with the county attorney’s office.

Child Protective Services Intake Duties: In accordance with s.48.981(3)(c), gathers information from reporter as to the alleged maltreatment, the function of the child(ren), parents, family unit and family’s response to intervention. Gathers information from other providers or community resources as to the vulnerability of the child(ren). Provides written documentation and initial screening decision to the Family Services Supervisor for final screening decision and possible case assignment. If required, the intake social worker will respond mobile and make initial face to face contact to assess child safety and take protective action if necessary--- including developing and initiating safety plans or taking temporary physical custody of the child(ren). They may also be requested to assist an Initial Assessment Social Worker with transportation of a child at the time of taking temporary physical custody, medical appts, court hearings, etc. as needed.
 

Youth Justice Intake Worker Duties: In accordance with 938.067, the intake social worker will receive information from Law Enforcement when a youth is alleged to have committed a crime. The intake social worker will gather information from the law enforcement officer regarding the youth behavior, the surrounding circumstances and the outcome of the youth behavior. The intake social worker will review agency records and collateral information to make custody recommendations regarding the youth remaining in the home, going to a non-secure placement, or a secure placement in juvenile detention. If placement is warranted, the intake social worker will respond out and complete the temporary physical custody request.

Essential Knowledge and Abilities:
Knowledge of Chapter 48 Children’s Code and Wisconsin State CPS Standards for Access, Initial Assessment and Safety Intervention. Knowledge of Chapter 938 Juvenile Justice Code. Basic understanding of child development, childhood trauma, mental health and alcohol or drug addiction, knowledge of current social and economic problems and the way in which these issues affect families. Exceptional telephone, communication and computer skills are essential to this position. Ability to multi-task completing several functions at the same time that coincide with one another. Ability to prioritize competing tasks in a rapid fashion. Ability to think critically and problem-solve in crisis situations and de-escalate conflictual situations. Work environment can be hostile, fast paced and at times highly volatile.

Training and Experience:

Bachelors or Masters degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in Social Work and the ability to be certified as a social worker in the State of Wisconsin within 6 months of hire. OR

Bachelors or Master’s degree in related field and two years’ relevant experience. Priority to candidates who have experience working with children and families in the capacity of child welfare, youth justice or mental health.
 

Non-social work degreed candidates must be willing to successfully complete an accredited social work certificate program within three years and be certified as a social worker in the State of Wisconsin 6 months post completion of the program.

A valid Wisconsin driver’s license, available automobile and automobile insurance are required.