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Child Protective Investigator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

New

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

New

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

New

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Family Case Manager

Noblesville, IN

$40K - $54K/yr

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Family Case Manager

Gary, IN · On-site

$47K/yr

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the ... a protected environment. * Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families ...

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Showing results 1-20

Child Protective Investigator information

See Indiana salary details

$29K

$55.4K

$81.8K

How much do child protective investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for child protective investigator in Indiana is $55,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,900.00 and $64,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child protective investigator?

A child protective investigator is a social worker who investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect. As a child protective investigator, you assess, identify, and document abuse and neglect cases, as well as find appropriate services to improve child welfare. Your duties may include interviewing children and caretakers, placing children in foster care, and finding adoptive homes for children. Child protective investigators may also consult with law enforcement or the judicial system, testify in court, and write reports based on their findings.

What does a child protective investigator do?

A Child Protective Investigator is responsible for assessing reports of child abuse, neglect, or abandonment. They conduct interviews with children, families, and other relevant parties to determine if a child is at risk and whether intervention is necessary. Their work involves gathering evidence, collaborating with law enforcement or social services, and making recommendations for the safety and well-being of the child. They play a vital role in ensuring the protection of vulnerable children and supporting families in crisis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child protective investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Protective Investigator, you need a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, strong investigative and case management skills, and a solid understanding of child welfare laws. Familiarity with case management software, data entry systems, and knowledge of legal and reporting procedures are typically required. Excellent communication, empathy, critical thinking, and resilience are essential soft skills for building trust with families and handling emotionally charged situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring child safety, effectively assessing risk, and making informed decisions in high-stress environments.

What are some of the most common challenges child protective investigators face during case investigations?

Child Protective Investigators often encounter emotionally charged situations, such as interviewing distressed families or children in crisis. Balancing a thorough investigation with sensitivity and empathy is crucial, as is managing a high caseload with tight deadlines. Investigators must also navigate collaboration with law enforcement, schools, and healthcare professionals, which requires strong communication and organizational skills. Support from supervisors and ongoing training helps address these challenges and ensure child safety.

What is the difference between Child Protective Investigator vs Child Welfare Caseworker?

AspectChild Protective InvestigatorChild Welfare Caseworker
Required credentialsTypically requires a degree in social work, psychology, or related field; state certification often neededSimilar educational requirements; often requires social work degree and certification
Work environmentInvestigates reports of child abuse/neglect, often in urgent or crisis situationsProvides ongoing support and case management for families, less crisis-focused
Employer and industry usageChild protective services agencies, government departmentsChild welfare agencies, social service organizations
Common search and comparison intentYesYes

Child Protective Investigators focus on investigating reports of child abuse and neglect, often working in urgent situations. Child Welfare Caseworkers provide ongoing support and case management for families. While both roles require similar credentials and work within child welfare agencies, their primary functions differ—investigation versus ongoing family support.

What are popular job titles related to Child Protective Investigator jobs in IN?

For Child Protective Investigator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Child Protective Investigator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,365 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Family Case Manager

State of Indiana

Sullivan, IN • On-site

$47K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Child Services:
Join a group of passionate, dedicated public servants to support one of Indiana's most critical missions!
The Department of Child Services helps children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. We pursue permanency for children and families through reunification, guardianship, and adoption. Our services also encompass foster care, child support, and transitional support for those adjusting to adulthood. Our culture is built upon our MVP foundation:
Mission: Champion Indiana's future by protecting children and strengthening families with compassion and determination.
Vision: Every child in Indiana thrives in a safe, loving, forever home.
Purpose: Ignite hope. Cultivate joy.
Role Overview:
The Family Case Manager represents DCS and supports families in a local or central DCS office. You will protect families and children from abuse and neglect, maintain or reunify families whenever possible, and, when in the best interest of the child, achieve a permanent home or independent living for children unable to be reunited with their families.
Please click this link for a realistic job preview video.
This position is in Sullivan, Indiana, and will serve Sullivan County, and surrounding counties as needed.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $47,320, but may be commensurate with education or work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
Responsibilities include:
  • Investigate reported incidents of child abuse, neglect, or dependency, determine whether the incident is substantiated, and develop recommendations to a Juvenile Court or County Director for disposition.
  • Assess the level of risk to the child for additional injury or harm, including whether the child is in imminent danger, and may remove the child from the family as the situation warrants, placing a child in a protected environment.
  • Perform needs assessments to determine treatment options for families and children reported to be abused/neglected.
  • Testify and prepare pre-dispositional and progress reports, maintain case files, and develop briefing reports for the community child protection team. Develops "informal adjustment" plans with families and children to divert children from the juvenile justice system.
  • Develop case plans to assist families and children to become more self-sufficient in a safe and nurturing environment and to ensure a permanent home for the child.
  • Develop discharge/transition programming to assist families and children to attain and maintain self-sufficiency in a safe environment.
  • Monitor and assess the service capability of treatment programs and providers to ensure consistency with the case plan.
  • Accept on-call responsibility as needed to receive and investigate allegations of child abuse/neglect.
  • Conduct home studies and family histories and recommend placement for adoption to an adoption team.
  • Visit children in out-of-home placements to coordinate family reunification, adoption, or independent living efforts.
  • Maintain data to help management evaluate trends in family and child needs.

The job profile is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time.
What You'll Need for Success:
Credentials:
  • Bachelor's degree, or
  • Associate degree with a minimum of two (2) years of human services job experience, or
  • Completion of thirty (30) college credit hours from an accredited institution with a minimum of four (4) years of human services job experience, or
  • A minimum of at least five (5) years of human services job experience.

Additional qualifications:
  • Advanced knowledge of principles and practices of social work, casework, sociology and group and individual counseling including new methods and theories of treatment.
  • Thorough knowledge of state and/or federal laws, regulations, guidelines, and standards affecting child protection services, foster care, family preservation and adoption.
  • Thorough knowledge of related social services programs and ability to coordinate work among programs.
  • Specialized knowledge of the interrelationships of the various behavioral sciences as they affect care and treatment of patients/clients and/or objectives of social work projects.
  • Ability to investigate and interview alleged victims and perpetrators of child abuse or neglect in an appropriate and effective manner.
  • Ability to formulate and monitor project guidelines or treatment plans.
  • Ability to prepare clear, accurate reports.
  • Ability to work with families of diverse cultural/ethnic backgrounds with sensitivity to differences in child rearing practices, relationships and need.
  • Ability to work with children with special needs such as mental or emotional conditions, the foster families, or the home willing to accept those children and the professionals who can appropriately provide services to them.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment while managing crises situations including those involving confrontational, aggressive adults being investigated for child abuse or neglect.
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license.

A degree is not required. However, at least 5+ years of human services experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
    • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
    • 12 paid holidays, 14 in election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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