DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SAFETY

The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) is a social and human services agency whose mission is to successfully partner with families, caregivers, and the community to strengthen families, ensure safety, and achieve permanency for all Arizona’s children through prevention, services, and support.

We’re Hiring!

 CASE MANAGER/CHILD SAFETY SPECIALIST

Mesa, East Mesa, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, and Gold Canyon

https://dcs.az.gov/careers

 

Salary: $21.7068 with step increases after training & years of service

Requisition Closing Date: Open Until Filled; Applications Reviewed Daily

 

Make An Impact With DCS

At the Arizona Department of Child Safety (“DCS”), we call ourselves "Compassioneers" because everything we do is done with a compassionate heart. We work diligently to protect and support the safety, well-being, and future of vulnerable children and families across the state.  DCS is proud to be a pillar of strength for our communities, and the work we do each day to build a safer, more compassionate and more resilient Arizona.

 

Why DCS?

Working for DCS is more than a just a job – it’s a mission-driven career that offers purpose, growth, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference.   You’ll be part of a team that’s passionate about child welfare and committed to serving with integrity, compassion, and accountability.  A career with DCS is an opportunity to give back to your community and help shape a brighter future for Arizona’s children and families.

What You’ll Do

As a Case Manager/Child Safety Specialist, you’ll:

• Work full-time, 40 hours a week on-site/in field; alternative work hours may be required
• Respond to allegations of child abuse or neglect
• Conduct interviews and assess child safety
• Work with families in their homes and in the community
• Coordinate services and develop case plans
• Attend court hearings and prepare professional reports
• Transport children and support placement needs
• Manage cases throughout your assigned region
• Collaborate with courts, providers, and partner agencies

We're Looking For Someone Who Can:

• Analyze information quickly and accurately, apply logic to complex situations and make independent, sound decisions in high pressure moments
• Communicate with clarity and compassion, conduct effective interviews, gather accurate information, and remain professional during challenging situations
• Stay organized and maintain accuracy and quality in a high-volume environment
• Remain calm in stressful situations; understand diverse family systems and cultural backgrounds; and show empathy while maintaining professional boundaries
• Provide strong attention to detail

What We Need From You (Required Qualifications) 

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree earned from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (conferred transcripts); OR 4 years as an Arizona Department of Child Safety Case Aide
• Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory 39 month driving record
• The ability to obtain and maintain a valid Department of Public Safety Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Work history, Central Registry and Public Record will be considered
• Successfully complete the 22 weeks of in person classroom and field training program

This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, and the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

 Knowledge Areas That Support Success: 

• Counseling, conflict resolution, and intervention techniques.
• Child development, family systems, and trauma-informed practice
• Confidentiality and ethical decision-making
• Behavioral indicators of abuse/neglect, separation, and loss 

Step Increases and Training Information

Case Managers/Child Safety Specialists are eligible for incremental pay increases as they grow in their roles as follows:

• Upon successful completion of the Arizona Department of Child Safety 22-week training program: $22.59/hour
• After one year of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $24.11
• After two years of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $25.96
• After three years of Arizona Department of Child Safety Specialist service: $27.66

Pay Rate Determination: Placement within the DCS Specialist step pay plan may include credit for qualifying years of service as an OCWI Investigator Senior, in addition to prior DCS Specialist experience, in accordance with agency policy.

Training Details:
The CORE program includes seven weeks of classroom training within the 22-week program. Classroom sessions occur in one- to three-week blocks and are held in midtown Phoenix.  Eligible hires receive hotel accommodations, as well as meal and mileage reimbursements during required in-person training.

The Perks

Join us, and you’ll enjoy: 

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance options
• A supportive retirement plan through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
• 10 paid holidays annually and generous vacation and sick leave
• Paid Parental Leave Program (must meet the criteria)
• Higher education discounts, wellness programs, and professional growth and development opportunities

 Please visit our State of Arizona benefits page.

 

If You Have the Skills, You Can Make a Lasting Impact.

Use your strengths to help children thrive and families find stability. 

Take the next step in your career and join a team that’s transforming lives across Arizona. Apply today and be part of something extraordinary!

 

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by contacting 602-255-3141 or by email at ADA@AZDCS.GOV.   Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.  Should you have any further questions regarding the interview process you can reach out to a member of our recruitment team at 602-255-2903 or by email at recruiting@azdcs.gov.  The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.