Services Specialist (CPS/Foster Care Case Manager) - Berrien 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)

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.
• If you possess an out of state drivers license, you must attach an official 2 year driving record to your application. 
• 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.

Click here to view the Position Description (Download PDF reader) & here to view the 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.

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.

Additional Requirements and Information

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

Position Location/Remote Office: This position may work remotely or work hybrid

(remote/office). The office is located at 401 Eighth St, Benton Harbor, MI 49023.

Employees will be provided computers to perform state work. Phones may also be provided for necessary communications. If working remotely, employees will be responsible for providing other components of a remote office at their own expense, including: 

• A secure work location that allows privacy and prevents distractions.
• A high-speed internet connection of at least 25 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload.
• Suitable lighting, furniture, and utilities.

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.