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STI

Child Welfare Specialist

Durham, NC · On-site

Client seeks contract resources to prepare and provide support for County Child Welfare staff during the implementation of the statewide Child Welfare Information system (CWIS). This is NOT a Desktop ...

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$23K

$43.2K

$108K

How much do child welfare jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for child welfare in the United States is $43,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $43,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Child Welfare vs Child Protective Services?

AspectChild WelfareChild Protective Services
CredentialsSocial work degree, state licensingSocial work degree, state licensing
Work EnvironmentChild advocacy agencies, social service officesChild abuse investigation units, social service agencies
Employer & IndustryChild welfare agencies, government departmentsChild protective services divisions, government agencies
Primary FocusPreventing child abuse, supporting family stabilityInvestigating abuse reports, removing children from unsafe environments

Child Welfare and Child Protective Services both focus on children's safety and well-being. Child Welfare emphasizes prevention, family support, and advocacy, while Child Protective Services primarily investigates abuse allegations and intervenes when children are in danger. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within government or social service agencies, but their core functions differ in scope and approach.

What jobs fall under child welfare?

Child welfare jobs include social workers, case managers, child protective services specialists, family support workers, and foster care coordinators. These roles typically require knowledge of child development, social work skills, and relevant certifications or licenses, and often involve working in government agencies, non-profits, or healthcare settings to support children's safety and well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Welfare Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Welfare Worker, you need a background in social work or a related field, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and often state licensure. Familiarity with case management systems, legal documentation, and child protection protocols is commonly required. Strong communication, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and resilience are crucial soft skills for building trust and managing difficult situations. These skills and qualifications are vital to effectively advocate for children's safety and well-being while navigating complex family dynamics and legal requirements.

Can you make $200,000 as a social worker?

Child welfare social workers typically earn salaries below $200,000, with most earning between $40,000 and $80,000 annually. Achieving a salary of $200,000 usually requires advanced positions, extensive experience, or supervisory roles, often found in larger agencies or specialized fields. Certifications and additional education can help increase earning potential but are unlikely to reach that level solely in entry- or mid-level positions.

What degree do I need to work for CPS?

Child Welfare professionals, including caseworkers for Child Protective Services (CPS), typically need at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certifications, and relevant experience or training in child welfare is also important.

What does a child welfare worker do?

A child welfare worker is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of children who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or other harm. Their duties often include investigating reports of child abuse, working with families to create safe home environments, and connecting families to community resources. They may also coordinate foster care placements, support family reunification, and advocate for children’s needs in court. The goal is to protect children while helping families overcome challenges and remain together whenever possible.

How to work in child welfare?

To work in child welfare, individuals typically need a relevant degree such as social work, psychology, or sociology, and often must obtain state licensure or certification. The job involves assessing family situations, developing care plans, and advocating for children's safety, often requiring strong communication, empathy, and crisis management skills. Many positions also require background checks and ongoing training.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in child welfare, and how do teams support each other in overcoming them?

Child welfare professionals often encounter emotionally demanding situations, such as cases involving abuse, neglect, or family crises. Navigating complex legal requirements and balancing heavy caseloads can also be challenging. Teams typically address these challenges through regular case reviews, supervision, peer support, and ongoing training, which foster collaboration and resilience. Open communication and strong teamwork are critical, as professionals often work closely with social workers, legal representatives, healthcare providers, and educators to ensure the best outcomes for children and families.
More about Child Welfare jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Welfare jobs? Cities with the most Child Welfare job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Welfare jobs? The most popular types of Child Welfare jobs are:
What states have the most Child Welfare jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Welfare jobs include:
Child Welfare jobs near you

Child Welfare Specialist

Coastal International Security, Inc

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Child Welfare Specialist

Child Safety Verification Program | Field-Based / Nationwide


Organization: Coastal International Security Program: Child Safety Verification Program

Location: Field-Based / Nationwide Compensation: $60,000 - $70,000 / year

Citizenship: U.S. Citizens Clearance: Federal Background Investigation Required


ROLE OVERVIEW

The Case Officer is the social services anchor of a two-person field team conducting in-person safety and wellness checks on unaccompanied children released to sponsors across the United States. Working alongside a Case Manager, the Case Officer leads child welfare assessment, engages with families and children with cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed care, and ensures the wellbeing focus of every interaction. This role requires a background in social work, case management, or child welfare and a genuine commitment to the safety of vulnerable children.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Conduct child welfare and safety assessments during field visits alongside the Case Manager
  • Engage with children, sponsors, and family members using trauma-informed, culturally sensitive practices
  • Ensure all interactions are conducted in the family's primary language - through bilingual capability or professional interpreters
  • Document case observations and outcomes accurately; submit reports within required timeframes
  • Identify and escalate safety concerns, signs of abuse, trafficking indicators, or welfare risks immediately
  • Adhere strictly to program Standards of Conduct - no gifts, no personal contact, no legal advice to participants
  • Report any adverse information, conduct violations, or safety concerns to supervisors within 24 hours
  1. Verify UAC school enrollment and confirm attendance in accordance with state requirements
  2. Inform UAC and sponsor of legal obligations including immigration court dates, ERO reporting, and release conditions
  3. Enter and update standardized case data in ICE systems of record following each completed visit
  4. Report serious health or safety events to supervisors within 1 hour; performance concerns within 1 calendar day
  • Participate in all required training, certifications, and annual refresher courses

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field - or equivalent field experience
  • 2+ years of experience in social work, case management, child welfare, or a related helping profession
  • Experience working with children, families, or vulnerable populations in a field or community setting
  • Strong written documentation and report-writing skills
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel extensively within assigned region

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bilingual (Spanish/English or other language pairs) strongly preferred - all interactions must be in the family's language
  • MSW or equivalent graduate-level credential in social work or human services
  • Experience with DHS, HHS, child protective services, refugee resettlement, or immigration-related programs
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed care frameworks and adverse childhood experience (ACE) indicators
  • Current or transferable federal background investigation - significantly accelerates onboarding

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS - ALL CANDIDATES

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen - no exceptions
  • Must have resided in the United States for at least 3 of the last 5 years
  • Must pass a federal government background investigation (suitability determination) before beginning work
  • Must complete all required government training modules before starting field work
  • Must sign program Standards of Conduct and Non-Disclosure Agreement
  • Must be able to work field-based, nationwide assignments
  • Note: Roles requiring access to government IT systems require U.S. Citizenship (not LPR)

Coastal International Security is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.