Social Services Specialist

Job Overview

Position Number:
County: Jackson
Posting End Date: 01/28/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137.00
DCFS

April Stokes

Non‑standard work hours, evenings, weekends, holidays.
24‑hour on‑call rotation up to 7 days at a time.
Motor‑vehicle operation any time of day or night; valid driver’s license and auto insurance required.
Extensive in‑state travel ability.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; transport children and adults.
Work with families experiencing poverty, addiction, neglect or abuse.
Problem‑solve and manage stressful situations.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (professional experience may substitute).
• Experience with children/families and community engagement.
• Public speaking, computer experience, organizational skills required.

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better.
We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe.
We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans.
Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS.
Working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Job Series: Social Services Programs - Career Path
Classification: Social Services Specialist
Class Code: SSP
16P
Pay Grade: SGS
06
Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163

The Social Services Specialist provides case management, client advocacy, and program support for individuals and families in need. This role requires assessing client needs, connecting individuals to community resources, and maintaining compliance with social services policies.

• Assess client eligibility and provide individualized case management.
• Develop service plans tailored to client needs.
• Conduct home visits, interviews, and risk assessments.
• Maintain detailed case records and documentation.
• Advocate for clients in legal, medical, and housing matters.

• Crisis intervention and de‑escalation techniques.
• Arkansas social service laws, policies, and regulations.
• Ability to analyze client needs and create action plans.
• Understanding of behavioral health and protective services.

• Minimum of two years of work experience in human services programs or public service.
• Background check and child/adult maltreatment registry check required.

Supplied substitution for all or part of basic requirements (except certifications) upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.