Services Specialist (CPS/Foster Care Case Manager) - Ottawa County

You must apply using the external link to be considered for this position.

The MDHHS mission is to provide opportunities, services, and programs that promote a healthy, safe, and stable environment for residents to be self-sufficient. We are committed to ensuring a diverse workforce and a work environment whereby all employees are treated with dignity, respect and fairness. For more information, please visit our MDHHS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan. (Download PDF reader)

Why join the Ottawa County DHHS Child Welfare Team?:
The Ottawa County Department of Health and Human Services’ office is in Holland, Michigan which is on the shores of Lake Michigan. Our community takes care of their own and our team strives to do their part for the children, families, and vulnerable adults in our community. If you are searching for a position where you can make a difference and you are up for a challenge this is the position for you!!  As a member of our great team, you will be mentored, encouraged and assisted on your journey to succeed in your position.  Applying today is the first step toward joining the great child welfare team in Ottawa County.

The Services Specialist will utilize child welfare practice skills to ensure children are protected from abuse and neglect.  When child abuse or neglect is indicated, specialists work closely with families and the legal system toward a goal of reunification, independent living, or other permanent living situation.
 
To be considered, you MUST:

• Attach a copy of your official transcripts showing you meet the below educational requirements. These must be signed by the registrar or show the university seal. We do accept electronic official transcripts.
• Attach an up to date resume.
• Attach a cover letter.
• Attach a written response to the "Is This Job For Me?" video answering the following questions:
  • If selected for this position what do you believe your biggest challenge will be? 
  • How do you see yourself overcoming this challenge? 

Failure to complete any of the above items may result in your application being screened out.

Review the position description at: Position Description (Download PDF reader) (9-P11), Services Specialist 12 Position Description (Download PDF reader)
Review the job specification at: Job Specification (Download PDF reader)

Required Education and Experience

Education
Possession of a bachelor’s or master’s degree with a major in one of the following human services areas: social work, sociology, psychology, forensic psychology, education, community development, law enforcement, behavioral science, gerontology, special education, education of the emotionally disturbed, education of the gifted, family ecology, community services, family studies, family and/or child development, counseling psychology, criminal justice, human services, a human services-related counseling major, or interdisciplinary studies in social science.

OR

Possession of a bachelor's degree in any major with at least 30 semester (45 term) credits in one or a combination of the following human services areas: social work, sociology, psychology, forensic psychology, education, community development, law enforcement, behavioral science, gerontology, special education, education of the emotionally disturbed, education of the gifted, family ecology, community services, family studies, family and/or child development, counseling psychology, criminal justice, human services, a human services-related counseling major, or interdisciplinary studies in social science. If yes, please attach ALL copies of your official college transcripts.

Experience
Services Specialist 9
No specific type or amount is required.

Services Specialist 10
One year of professional experience providing casework services to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals equivalent to a Services Specialist 9.

Services Specialist P11
Two years of professional experience providing casework services to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals equivalent to a Services Specialist, including one year equivalent to a Services Specialist 10.

Services Specialist 12 
Three years of professional experience providing social casework services to socially and economically disadvantaged individuals equivalent to a Services Specialist, including one year equivalent to a Services Specialist P11.

Additional Requirements and Information

When you apply, your application is valid for 6 months.  After 6 months, you MUST reapply for continued consideration.

THIS POSTING IS BEING USED TO RECRUIT FOR BOTH PERMANENT AND LIMITED TERM APPOINTMENTS.

The office location for this position is at OTTAWA COUNTY MDHHS, 12185 JAMES ST., HOLLAND, MI  49424 however, this position has the ability to work hybrid(combination of remote and office). Selected candidates who have been approved to work hybrid must complete that work within Michigan. Candidates should confirm work location and schedule at the time of interview.  

As a Condition of Employment – this position requires a valid driver's license and successful completion of a background investigation including fingerprinting and a criminal records check.

Upon hire, the successful candidate will be required to complete a nine week pre-service training program that includes a total of 270 hours of competency-based classroom and field training. Additionally, the employee must successfully complete a minimum number of hours of in-service training on an annual basis.

The department reserves the right to close this posting at any time if it is determined that a sufficient number of applications have been received.