Child Safety Investigations - Social Services Specialist - Lauderdale County

Child Safety Investigations - Social Services Specialist | VieMed Healthcare StaffingLocation: Lauderdale CountyPay Rate: $30.25/hourSchedule: Full-Time | 8-Hour Shifts | In-PersonVieMed Healthcare Staffing is seeking skilled and passionate Social Services Specialists to join our Child Safety Investigations team across Mississippi. In this critical role, you will work directly with families and community partners to assess, investigate, and help protect the well-being of children.Important Eligibility Requirement Applicants must have previously worked for the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) within the past five (5) years and successfully completed MDCPS Pre-Service Training.

• Individuals who do not meet this requirement are not eligible for the position and should not apply.
• Candidates who left MDCPS more than five years ago or who have not completed Pre-Service Training will be automatically disqualified from consideration.
• Additionally, candidates cannot have been employed by MDCPS within the past six (6) months.

Why Join Us?Become part of a mission-driven organization focused on child welfare, advocacy, and community impact. We offer competitive compensation, ongoing support, and an opportunity to truly make a difference in children’s lives across Mississippi.What You’ll DoAs a Contract Social Services Specialist, your core responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Conduct initial and ongoing safety and risk assessments for reports of child maltreatment, including abuse, neglect, exploitation, human trafficking, and fatalities.
• Investigate allegations received through Mississippi Centralized Intake and Assessment by conducting home visits, interviews, and collaboration with collateral sources.
• Develop and monitor safety plans and make fact-based service recommendations.
• Conduct historical record checks to assess prior agency involvement.
• Schedule and attend forensic interviews, autopsies, and other case-related meetings.
• Prepare and submit timely and thorough documentation, including investigative reports and case notes.
• Testify in court and administrative proceedings as required.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with law enforcement, legal partners, and community agencies to support investigations.
• Mentor and support new staff in the investigation process.
• Participate in team meetings, case staffing, and professional development activities.
• Utilize data and time management tools to prioritize daily responsibilities and meet deadlines.
• Participate in on-call rotation during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Travel routinely within assigned service areas (mileage reimbursed per state guidelines).

What You’ll BringEducation (Required):

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Social Work, Social Services, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Counseling, Educational Psychology, Family Studies, or a related field.

Additional Requirements (Strictly Enforced):

• Successful completion of Pre-Service Training through MDCPS.
• Prior employment with MDCPS within the past five (5) years.
• Not employed with MDCPS within the last six (6) months.
• Reliable personal transportation.
• Clean driving record and valid driver’s license.
• Current auto insurance.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
• Willingness and ability to travel and work across various service areas in Mississippi.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong ability to recognize signs and symptoms of child maltreatment.
• Solution-focused critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• High cultural competency and ability to build rapport with diverse populations.
• Ability to remain flexible, professional, and resilient in often unpredictable environments.
• Commitment to child welfare best practices and ethical service delivery.

Job Type

• Contract (Full-Time)
• Hourly Rate: $30.25
• Work Setting: In-person

About VieMed Healthcare StaffingVieMed Healthcare Staffing is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We celebrate and support all backgrounds and identities and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability.Ready to make an impact?If you meet the strict MDCPS experience and Pre-Service Training requirements, apply today to join a team that values dedication, compassion, and excellence in supporting Mississippi’s children and families.#LiveYourLife #VHSSW #ZR #zr