Social Worker - Child Protection Assessment and Investigations

Posted: 11/07/2025

Government

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $33.45 to $44.66. Full salary range is $33.45 to $55.87.

Bachelor's or Master's degree from an accredited college or university.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Desirable Qualifications:

Two years of social service-related experience.

Nature of Work

Under general supervision of a program manager or supervisor, and within State and locally developed programs and policies, responds to concerns from individuals, families and the community regarding the safety and well-being of children. Child protection intervention may be an investigative forensic approach with a formal finding of maltreatment or a family assessment response that requires no formal finding of maltreatment. Partnership based collaborative social work practice supports family involvement strategies as part of an effort to promote child safety, well-being and permanency. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

Conducts assessments of risk and needs with children, families and collaterals using a variety of tools and in a variety of settings that include but are not limited to home visits, office and facilities.
Works collaboratively with children and families on the development of individualized safety plans and service plans.
Completes and maintains documentation in compliance with statutory, program and audit requirements.
Advise clients of possible resources, rights, and responsibilities under programs or services
Refers clients to other programs or agencies when appropriate
Actively engages networks of supports for families.
Actively participates in growth and development opportunities.
Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the social sciences
Knowledge of the principles of social work
Knowledge of community resources
Knowledge of social and economic problems
Knowledge of motivating factors of human behavior
Knowledge of the dynamics of victimization and the root causes of violence, including domestic violence
Knowledge of the impacts of domestic violence on children and overall family functioning
Knowledge of trauma-informed practices
Knowledge of the criminal justice system, including victim rights
Knowledge of therapeutic and strength-based approaches
Knowledge of and sensitivity to victim issues, victim needs
Knowledge of agency policies
Knowledge of data practices and confidentiality
Skilled in verbal communication, public speaking, writing and recording of information and data
Skill in the use of computers and technology
Skills in individual and community advocacy
Ability to understand individual and family needs with empathy and objectivity
Ability to exercise good judgment in recommending possible solutions for individual and family needs and when utilizing conflict management and advocacy skills
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, co-workers, public officials and citizens of the community
Ability to organize efficiently and keep records systematically
Ability to work independently and to recognize when supervision is needed
Ability to work with diverse populations
Ability to serve as a liaison to community resources
Ability to drive an automobile

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.