Child Welfare Specialist - CPS Intake

Please note the required work schedule days and hours.

Follow Your Calling, Find Your Career!!

Please apply by:
Sunday, January 25th, 2026

Salary Range: $25.06 to $31.33 per hour. This is a non-exempt position. Pay rates are based on education, skill, experience level and internal equity. Internal equity considerations include an assessment of the applicant’s salary history and qualifications in comparison to the market rate and requirements for the job.

At Mecklenburg County, you’ll have the chance to build a career as unique as you are with support, inclusive culture, and technology to become the best version of you. We’re counting on YOUR unique voice and perspective to help Mecklenburg County become even better, too. Join us and build an exceptional experience for yourself, and a better working world for all.

Youth and Family Services Division (YFS)of the DSS Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (CFAS) provides a variation of services to safeguard children by strengthening the protective capacities of families whose children’s health, safety and well-being are  mission of DSS is to strengthen families and communities through a safety-net of services, collaborations, and hope. The Department’s vision is to define and cultivate an organizational culture that is more compassionate and understanding toward each other and our clients.

YFS firmly believes the people who do this work are our most important resource. As such, children and families deserve trained, skillful professionals to engage and effectively assist them. If you have a passion for social work and making a difference in your local community, come join our Youth and Family Services team!

Position with Child Protective Services is located at 10101 David Taylor Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262. Work onsite full time Sunday – Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Position is expected to cover/work on approximately 3 holidays per year.

The CPS Intake Social Worker serves as the first point of contact for individuals reporting suspected child abuse, neglect, or dependency. This role is responsible for gathering critical information, assessing risk, and making screening decisions in accordance with state law, agency policy, and child safety standards. The position requires strong analytical skills, trauma-informed communication, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

• Receive and Document Reports: Answer incoming calls regarding suspected child maltreatment;
  Collect detailed, accurate information from reporters, including child demographics, alleged maltreatment, and household composition;
  Ensure all required data fields are completed in the case management system.
• Risk Assessment & Screening: Apply state policy and structured decision-making tools to determine if reports meet criteria for CPS involvement;
  Identify imminent safety threats and elevate urgent cases immediately;
  Consult with supervisors on complex or borderline cases.
• Notifications & Compliance: Complete mandatory notifications to Law Enforcement (LE), District Attorney (DA), and other required parties within statutory timelines;
  Generate and send Reporter Letters as required by policy.
• Communication & Customer Service: Engage callers with professionalism and empathy, using trauma-informed practices;
  Provide accurate information about CPS processes while maintaining confidentiality.
• Documentation: Prepare clear, objective, and comprehensive case notes that support downstream investigations and court proceedings;
  Ensure documentation meets agency standards for accuracy and timeliness.
• Collaboration: Coordinate with internal units, law enforcement, and community partners as needed;
  Participate in team meetings, calibration sessions, and ongoing training.

• Assess needs of individuals and/or families and link them to appropriate resources to meet goals and expected outcomes.
• Conduct in-home assessments and provide ongoing support (if applicable).
• Assess well being and safety of children.
• Facilitate face-to-face, telephone and virtual contacts with children and families and internal and external…