Child Protection Social Worker 1-2

About Us:

At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services, including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services(ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program (DSP).

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure.  We work collaboratively across the province with a strong, dedicated network of supports and staff to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

As a Child and Family Wellbeing Social Worker, you will work with children, families, communities, and service partners to support child safety and wellbeing, strengthen families, and help connect children and families with appropriate resources.

Program Areas Where You Could Work

• Assessment: Assess child safety and wellbeing concerns and work with children, families, communities, and service partners to determine appropriate next steps. This program area encompasses assessment, information gathering, timely decision-making, and working with families during periods of immediate concern.
• Ongoing Support: Work with children and families on an ongoing basis to develop and support case plans, assess identified concerns, build on family strengths, and connect families with community resources.
• Children in Care: Plan with and support children in the care of the Minister, working with families, caregivers, communities, and service partners to help determine safe and appropriate living arrangements. This program encompasses coordinated planning and supporting children/ youth through important transitions.
  

What You Will Do:

You will use your knowledge of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed practice, intervention approaches, and community resources to support children and families in complex circumstances. Depending on your program area, you may:

• Assess child safety and wellbeing concerns.
• Work with children and families to develop and support case plans.
• Help children and families connect with community resources.
• Collaborate with families, caregivers, communities, and service providers.
• Participate in risk assessments, evaluations, and court processes.
• Plan with and support children in the care of the Minister.
• Advocate for the safety and wellbeing of children, youth and families.

Your work will be guided by the Children and Family Services Act and An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families.

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered, you must have:

• A completed Master of Social Work degree; or
• A completed Bachelor of Social Work and at least two years of related experience.
• A valid Class 5 driver’s license.
• Eligibility for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers.

You will also need to demonstrate the ability to:

• Analyze information and make sound, timely decisions.
• Communicate clearly with children, families, communities, and service partners.
• Work collaboratively while managing your professional responsibilities.
• Apply inclusive, culturally responsive, and respectful practices.
• Work effectively in crisis and high-pressure situations.

If you are currently completing a Bachelor or Master of Social Work, and anticipate graduating within the next 6 months, you are encouraged to apply. In your application, please identify the degree you are completing and the month and year you expect to complete all degree requirements.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Related Experience

Related experience may be gained through professional employment, academic placements, volunteer or community involvement, and other settings where you developed experience relevant to social work practice. Examples include but are not limited to case management, risk assessment, crisis support, advocacy, family dynamics, trauma support, or connecting people with community resources.

Your application should clearly describe the setting, responsibilities, and experience you are relying on.

Working Conditions

Your typical work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day. The work involves meeting with clients in their homes and meeting service providers in the community. Substantial driving may be required, including in adverse weather.

Some situations may require work beyond regular hours on short notice.

The work can involve crisis situations and significant physical and emotional demands.

Additional Information

An offer of employment is conditional upon satisfactory completion of all applicable background checks and confirmation of credentials, including: Valid Driver's License, Education Verification, Registration with the NSCSW, Child Abuse Registry Check, and Criminal Background/ Vulnerable Sector Check.

This posting may be used to fill additional Child Protection Social Worker 1-2 roles within 4 months of the closing date of the competition. 

What We Offer

Depending on employment status and eligibility, we offer:

• Reimbursement of Nova Scotia College of Social Workers registration fees.
• A modified schedule of 7.75-hour workdays with an earned day off every 2nd week may be available, subject to eligibility and operational requirements.
• Overtime and shift premiums for eligible weekend and after-hours work.
• Travel and car allowance.
• Three weeks of vacation to start.
• Annual pay progression.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program.
• Health, dental, life, illness, and disability benefits.
• A defined-benefit pension plan.
• Coaching, in-depth job-related training, and advancement opportunities.