Job No: 540981
Work Type: Full-time
Location: COTTONWOOD
Categories: Social Work/Human Services
DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SAFETY The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) is a social and human services agency whose mission is to successfully partner with families, caregivers, and the community to strengthen families, ensure safety, and achieve permanency for all Arizona's children through prevention, services, and support.
We're Hiring!
CASE MANAGER/CHILD SAFETY SPECIALIST
Cottonwood, Arizona
https://dcs.az.gov/careers
Salary: $21.7068 with step increases after training & years of service
Requisition Closing Date: Open Until Filled; Applications Reviewed Daily
Make An Impact With DCS
At the Arizona Department of Child Safety ("DCS"), we call ourselves "Compassioneers" because everything we do is done with a compassionate heart. We work diligently to protect and support the safety, well-being, and future of vulnerable children and families across the state. DCS is proud to be a pillar of strength for our communities, and the work we do each day to build a safer, more compassionate and more resilient Arizona.
Why DCS?
Working for DCS is more than a just a job - it's a mission-driven career that offers purpose, growth, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference. You'll be part of a team that's passionate about child welfare and committed to serving with integrity, compassion, and accountability. A career with DCS is an opportunity to give back to your community and help shape a brighter future for Arizona's children and families.
What You'll Do
As a Case Manager/Child Safety Specialist, you'll:
Work full-time, 40 hours a week on-site/in field; alternative work hours may be required
Respond to allegations of child abuse or neglect
Conduct interviews and assess child safety
Work with families in their homes and in the community
Coordinate services and develop case plans
Attend court hearings and prepare professional reports
Transport children and support placement needs
Manage cases throughout your assigned region
Collaborate with courts, providers, and partner agencies
We're Looking For Someone Who Can:
Analyze information quickly and accurately, apply logic to complex situations and make independent, sound decisions in high pressure moments
Communicate with clarity and compassion, conduct effective interviews, gather accurate information, and remain professional during challenging situations
Stay organized and maintain accuracy and quality in a high-volume environment
Remain calm in stressful situations; understand diverse family systems and cultural backgrounds; and show empathy while maintaining professional boundaries
Provide strong attention to detail
What We Need From You (Required Qualifications)
Bachelor's or master's degree earned from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (conferred transcripts); OR 4 years as an Arizona Department of Child Safety Case Aide
Valid driver's license and a satisfactory 39 month driving record
The ability to obtain and maintain a valid Department of Public Safety Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
Work history, Central Registry and Public Record will be considered
Successfully complete the 22 weeks of in person classroom and field training program
This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, and the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements. (https://publicstorage.dc4.pageuppeople.com/1045/ClientPublicFile/3601803f-02e5-4b70-b325-26c8ef309c1b.pdf)
All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).
Knowledge Areas That Support Success:
Counseling, conflict resolution, and intervention techniques.
Child development, family systems, and trauma-informed practice
Confidentiality and ethical decision-making
Behavioral indicators of abuse/neglect, separation, and loss
Step Increases and Training Information
Case Managers/Child Safety Specialists are eligible for incremental pay increases as they grow in their roles as follows:
Upon successful completion of the Arizona Department of Child Safety 22-week training program: $22.59/hour
After one year of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $24.11
After two years of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $25.96
After three years of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $27.66
Pay Rate Determination: Placement within the DCS Specialist step pay plan may include credit for qualifying years of service as an OCWI Investigator Senior, in addition to prior DCS Specialist experience, in accordance with agency policy.
Training Details:
The CORE program includes seven weeks of classroom training within the 22-week program. Classroom sessions occur in one- to three-week blocks and are held in midtown Phoenix. Eligible hires receive hotel accommodations, as well as meal and mileage reimbursements during required in-person training.
The Perks
Join us, and you'll enjoy:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance options
A supportive retirement plan through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
10 paid holidays annually and generous vacation and sick leave
Paid Parental Leave Program (must meet the criteria)
Higher education discounts, wellness programs, and professional growth and development opportunities
Please visit our State of Arizona benefits page (https://benefitoptions.az.gov/jobseekers) .
If You Have the Skills, You Can Make a Lasting Impact.
Use your strengths to help children thrive and families find stability.
Take the next step in your career and join a team that's transforming lives across Arizona. Apply today and be part of something extraordinary!
Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting 602-255-3141 or by email at ADA@AZDCS.GOV. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. Should you have any further questions regarding the interview process you can reach out to a member of our recruitment team at 602-255-2903 or by email at recruiting@azdcs.gov. The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.
