Master Conservatorship Caseworker

WHY WORK FOR DFPS?

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected — children, elderly, and people with disabilities — from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

The position performs advanced (senior-level) child protective services work and will be assigned to work conservatorship cases in counties across the state experiencing high caseloads and/or in regional areas transitioning to Community Base Care.

The Master CVS Caseworker is assigned as the primary worker on cases and is responsible for all job-related tasks including developing case plans, ensuring safe and appropriate placement of children, attending court hearings and all case related meetings/staffings. Additionally, this position may be required to assist with mentoring newly hired staff or work Child Without Placement shifts in their assigned area of deployment if the need arises.

The CPS Master program anticipates dually certifying team members in both Conservatorship and Family Based Safety Services programs with the expectation that these positions can also assist with working FBSS cases if the need arises.

The position can expect to be traveling approximately 80% of each month in order to complete essential job duties.

This position can be housed in any region with a DFPS office.

Essential Job Functions:        

• Ensures appropriate services are provided to parents, children and youth to ensure safety, permanency and well-being.

• Maintains contact with children and families in accordance with CPS policy and to achieve goals.

• Develops case plans for children and parents.

• Writes court reports and presents case information to legal parties and the courts.

• Enters contact, documentation information and narratives into the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System (IMPACT) within required agency time frames.

• Develops and maintains effective working relationships between Child Protective Services staff, children, youth, parents, caregivers, foster parents, judicial officials, CASA, legal parties, medical professionals, other community resources, etc.

• Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings.

• Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit/program & regional operations. This may include assisting FBSS units needing support, working CWOP shifts and Mentoring.

• Helps identify resources and community support available to the family.

• Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all work-related contacts.

• Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:        

Applicants for this position must have an acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. 

Knowledge Skills Abilities:    

Knowledge of child development.

Knowledge of family dynamics.

Knowledge of current Child Protective Services policy and procedures.

Knowledge of the Texas Family Code.

Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

Skill in effective verbal and written communication.

Skill in developing effective working relationships with CPS staff, law enforcement and community members.

Ability to efficiently utilize the functions of computer equipment & other state issued technology

Ability to multi-task and meet required deadlines in a highly mobile work environment

Ability to work effectively and efficiently with limited direct supervision.

Ability to travel statewide overnight and for extended periods of time.

Ability to work flexible hours beyond 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday.

Initial Screening Criteria:      

• Must have graduated from high school or equivalent.

• Must have graduated from an accredited four-year college or university.

• Employed as a CPS Conservatorship Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Child Protective Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

•Employed as a CPS Family Based Safety Service Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Child Protective Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. 

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.

Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.

As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. 

DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents .

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.