Child Protection Case Assistant

The Opportunity:

he Ministry of Social Services, Child and Family Programs division in the North Service Area requires a Case Assistant to fill a term position in the Buffalo Narrows office.

As a Child Protection Case Assistant, you will provide operational support to a child protection unit. Under the direction of the Child and Family Programs Supervisor, you will explore options for placement of the child; arrange and supervise visits; transport children to and from placements; make referrals for support services for family; coordinate case conferences; research case files and provide background information to support, implement established expectations for the child, family, extended family and others and complete registration for Treaty status or Metis status.

You may also be responsible for accompanying case workers to investigate instances of children in need of protection by observing and recording interviews, assist in assessing risks to child safety, and making recommendations to ensure the safety of the child.

While the representation of Indigenous staff within the Child and Family Program Division has been prioritized, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Only those selected for further assessment will be contacted.

This competition will be used to create an eligibility list that will be valid for up to 6 months and will be used to staff current and future opportunities.

• Provide operational support to a child protection unit under the direction of a Child Protection Supervisor.
• Explore placement options for children as directed.
• Arrange and supervise visits between children and families or caregivers.
• Transport children to and from placements, appointments, and other required locations.
• Make referrals for family support services to assist with child welfare plans.
• Coordinate case conferences involving families, service providers, and other stakeholders.
• Research case files and compile background information to support planning and decision-making.
• Accompany case workers during investigations of children in need of protection.
• Observe and document interviews, assist in assessing risks, and recommend actions to ensure child safety.

Job Capabilities:

As a public servant, we are seeking someone who:

• Is accountable, takes ownership of their work by contributing to organizational outcomes and demonstrates the corporate values in our Commitment to Excellence.
• Is innovative and seeks out ways for improvement by thinking creatively, identifying new ideas and taking responsible risks.
• Works collaboratively with others to understand, engage and have meaningful dialogue to achieve work outcomes.
• Is inclusive, identifies and is aware of personal bias, and readily seeks out and appreciates diverse perspectives.
• Is adaptable, continuously learns from experience and applies those learnings to new situations.
• Focuses on achieving public service excellence.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

To be successful in this role, you will:

• Have knowledge of child abuse, neglect and domestic violence indicators and effects; and

• Have knowledge of multi-cultural beliefs and values, with a particular emphasis on First Nations and Métis people.

• Collaborate and maintain open working relationship with staff, families, First Nations Child and Family Service partners and community-based organizations.

• The successful candidates must be legally eligible to operate a vehicle in Saskatchewan.

• You must be able to lift and carry small children up to approximately 20 kg. You will be required to travel, work flexible hours that include evenings, weekends and holidays.

• You must possess a strong knowledge of Human Services-related policies, practices and procedures. Typically, the knowledge and skills required for this position would be obtained through a diploma or degree in a Human Services-related field and experience working in a human service setting.

• We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including First Nation, Inuit and Métis citizens. The ability to speak an Indigenous language such as Cree, Saulteaux, Dene, Dakota, Lakota, Nakoda or Michif is a valued asset.

• Candidates must clearly indicate in their cover letter or resume where they have acquired their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Selection of candidates will be assessed based on this information. Only those selected for further assessment will be contacted.

Job Skills:

• Communication (Level B)
• Critical Thinking (Level B)
• Digital Skills (Level B)
• Interacting with Others (Level B)
• Navigating Ambiguity (Level B)
• Managing Self (Level B)
• Health, Safety and Wellness (Level A)
• Data Literacy (Level A)
• Influence (Level A)
• Political and Organizational Awareness (Level A)

Learn more about the Government of Saskatchewan’s Capabilities and Skills Framework here.

What We Offer:

• Dynamic and challenging work
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package including pension
• Vacation, scheduled days off, and other types of leave
• Inclusive work environments
• Career growth, development, and advancement opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements

Our Commitment to Excellence:

The Government of Saskatchewan upholds deep-rooted values of Respect and Integrity, Serving Citizens, Excellence and Innovation, and Acting as One Team.