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Social Worker Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Social Worker IAT

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$60K - $95K/yr

Person County Department of Social Services is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Social Worker Investigative/Assessment and Treatment (IAT) within the Child Protective Services (CPS ...

Social Worker IAT

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$60K - $77K/yr

Person County Department of Social Services is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Social Worker Investigative/Assessment and Treatment (IAT) within the Child Protective Services (CPS ...

Social Worker

Washington, DC · On-site

$82K - $103K/yr

Job Summary Social Workers are responsible for providing the full range of direct, professional ... Investigations- This administration plays an important role in responding to a variety of child ...

Social Worker

Sisseton, SD · On-site +1

$80K - $104K/yr

Social Worker Total Compensation | Pay (ihs.gov) Requirements Help Conditions of employment ... A background investigation is a standard process used by the Federal Government to verify an ...

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Social Worker Investigator information

See salary details

$34.5K

$76.3K

$117K

How much do social worker investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for social worker investigator in the United States is $76,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social worker investigator?

Social Worker Investigators are professionals who assess reports of abuse, neglect, or other welfare concerns involving children, adults, or families. They conduct interviews, gather evidence, and collaborate with law enforcement and other agencies to determine the validity of claims and ensure the safety and well-being of those involved. Their investigative work often leads to recommendations for services, interventions, or legal action when necessary. Social Worker Investigators play a crucial role in protecting vulnerable populations and advocating for their rights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social worker investigator?

To thrive as a Social Worker Investigator, you need a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work, licensure as required by your state, and strong knowledge of investigative procedures. Familiarity with case management software, legal documentation systems, and evidence-gathering tools is commonly required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and critical thinking help professionals navigate sensitive situations and build trust with clients. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure thorough investigations, protect vulnerable populations, and uphold legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges social worker investigators face when conducting client assessments?

Social Worker Investigators often encounter challenges such as uncooperative clients, incomplete information, or emotionally charged situations when conducting assessments. Building trust with clients while maintaining professional boundaries can be difficult, especially in cases involving child welfare or abuse allegations. Additionally, investigators must balance thorough documentation with timely case resolution, often working within strict legal and organizational guidelines. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential to overcome these challenges and ensure client safety.

What is the difference between Social Worker Investigator vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Worker InvestigatorSocial Worker
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW or MSW), state licensureSame as Investigator: Bachelor's or Master's in Social Work, licensure
Work EnvironmentChild protective services, family welfare agencies, legal settingsHospitals, schools, community organizations, social service agencies
Employer & IndustryChild welfare agencies, government departmentsHealthcare, education, nonprofit organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Social Worker Investigators focus on child abuse, neglect cases, and legal investigations, often working within child welfare agencies. Social Workers have broader roles in providing counseling, case management, and support services across various settings. Both roles require similar credentials and licensure, but their work environments and primary responsibilities differ.

How to become an investigative social worker?

To become an investigative social worker, you typically need a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, followed by relevant work experience in social services. Many positions require state licensure or certification, and strong skills in interviewing, report writing, and case assessment are essential. Some roles may require a master's degree and specialized training in investigation techniques.
More about Social Worker Investigator jobs
Infographic showing various Social Worker Investigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,266 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

$60K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

"Everything is Better in Person" Summary Objective Join our team and make a meaningful difference for children, adults, and families in our community. If you're a compassionate, dedicated, and highly skilled person who's been looking for a role where your ideas are heard, your work has visible impact, and your professional and personal growth is valued, consider building your future with us. Person County Department of Social Services is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Social Worker Investigative/Assessment and Treatment (IAT) within the Child Protective Services (CPS) Unit.

This position plays a critical role in protecting the safety, well-being, and permanency of children throughout Person County. The primary purpose of the Child Protective Services Unit is to ensure that children are protected from situations involving abuse, neglect, dependency, and abandonment by parents, guardians, or other caretakers. The Social Worker IAT serves as a frontline professional responsible for responding to reports of suspected child maltreatment and assessing the safety and needs of children and families.

  For the detailed job description, click HERE. To learn more about the Department of Social Services, click HERE. The starting salary will be determined with consideration given to both the candidate's educational background and relevant work experience.

Must possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record per County policy. This is a non-exempt position working 37.5 hours weekly/1950 hours annually. Cover letter, resume and transcripts required to apply

A copy of the official college transcript added as an attachment is acceptable for the application process, but if an applicant is selected for an interview, he/she will be required to bring an official college transcript to the interview. Essential Functions Interview the victim child(ren) and other children in the home Evaluate the child's safety, physical condition, mental health and developmental needs Interview the perpetrator Interview the non-offending parent Make a home visit Contact collaterals Conduct criminal record checks Make referrals for more intensive evaluations if indicated Make referrals to community resources such as health care providers, transportation resources, housing, etc. Make referrals to law enforcement if abuse is suspected Prepare court petitions and summaries Provide court testimony Assist other counties with cross-county investigations Maintain frequent contact with the family during the course of the investigation Concise, timely documentation of the case specifics Staffing cases with the supervisor and Unit Mandated correspondence including letters to the reporter and case decision letters Provide transportation to clients and children as needed Receive reports of suspected child abuse and neglect from reporters Screen the reports with a Supervisor to determine whether the report meets the legal definition to be accepted for investigation or assessment.

Determine appropriate response timeframe based on the allegations received Minimum Education and Experience Requirements Master's degree from an accredited school of social work and one year of social work experience; or a Bachelor's degree from an accredited school of social work and two years of social work or counseling experience; or Master's degree in counseling and two years of social work or counseling experience; or a four-year degree in a human services field or curriculum and three years of social work or counseling experience; or graduation from a four-year college or university and four years of experience in rehabilitation counseling, pastoral counseling or a related human service field providing experience in the techniques of casework, group work or community organization; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. One year of work experience can be credited for completion of the social work collaborative. Person County conducts pre-employment screening on candidates.

Job offers are conditional pending the following: A pre-employment drug screen for all candidates. Positions designated by Person County as Safety Sensitive are also subject to random drug and alcohol testing. A background check for all candidates.

Some positions also require a credit check. Additional screening and testing required for some positions. Within 3 days of the start of your employment with the County, you must be able to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the US.

Person County Government is an Equal Opportunity/E-Verify Employer