Child and Family Services Specialist​/Trainee; CFSS-Social Work

Overview

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is seeking compassionate and committed individuals to join our team as Child and Family Services Specialists (CFSS).

These professionals provide essential support to children and families through trauma-informed case management and advocacy. This work has traditionally been known as Child Protective Services and directly supports our mission of Helping People Live Better Lives.

Job Title:

Child and Family Services Specialist/Trainee (CFSS) - Social Work (Evergreen) (Open)

Location:

North Platte, NE
Hiring Agency:
Health & Human Services - Agency 25
Salary:
Trainee starts at $21.836 with an increase to $25.607 after successful completion of training.

• Serve as a case manager for families referred to DHHS.
• Conduct home visits and comprehensive safety assessments in diverse community settings.
• Advocate for the well-being of children and families while respecting cultural and individual diversity.
• Apply family-centered practices and actively involve families in decision-making.
• Collaborate with the legal system and other partners to support case permanency goals.
• Utilize Structured Decision Making (SDM) tools to inform safety planning and case decisions.
• Write timely, accurate, and professional documentation for internal and legal use.
• Connect families to formal services and informal supports based on assessed needs.
• Promote normalcy and permanency for children in care.
• Apply trauma-informed and least-restrictive approaches to strengthen family functioning and resilience.

The training schedule is generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During this period, occasional after-hours field experiences and case-related responsibilities may be required. Following the completion of training, flexible work hours are available. Evening hours may be necessary to accommodate the needs of assigned families. This position also requires participation in an on-call rotation, which includes weeknights, weekends, and holidays.

There is exposure to homes that may be in poor or unsanitary conditions and emotionally difficult situations. Worker safety is a top priority, and training and protocols are in place to support staff in the field. Staff receive ongoing supervision, training, peer support, and collaboration with law enforcement and legal partners to ensure safety and effective outcomes for families.

Viewing the Realistic Job Preview video is highly recommended prior to applying. The video provides a candid look at day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of the CFSS role. Check out this video to learn more.

Working at DHHS offers more than a paycheck—it provides purpose. Benefits include:

• Vacation and sick leave begin accruing immediately upon hire.
• 13 paid holidays.
• Agency-backed retirement plan with employer match.
• Supportive leadership and team culture.
• Numerous opportunities for internal advancement and promotion.

Start your career with Nebraska today and make a meaningful impact on families across the state.

Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or other related fields. Consideration will be given to applicants who are enrolled in the final semester of their bachelor’s degree. Promotion to a CFSS is contingent on successfully completing degree requirements and required training.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience in child welfare, juvenile justice and/or case management experience, internships with human services/child welfare agencies will also be considered.

Other: Valid Driver's license is required.

If you are currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please log in to Workday and use the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app. Access Workday at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities. Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, visit: #benefits

The State of Nebraska values diversity and strives to promote inclusion and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics.