Child Protection Social Worker Supervisor

at  Province of Nova Scotia

Department: Community Services
Location: PORT HAWKESBURY
Type of Employment: Term
Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG
Closing Date: 08-Oct-24 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

ABOUT US

At the Department of Community Services (DCS), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services(ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program(DSP).
Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES

You will be accountable for a wide range of responsibilities that are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families. Your main accountabilities include:

• Administering the Child and Family Services Act and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth, and Families (FNIM) Act by developing case plans and participating in court interventions as required.
• Acting on behalf of the Minister of Community Services to make decisions on the care of children at risk through risk assessment case conferences with Child Protection Social Workers and Program Specialists.
• Working with families and children in high-stress situations, focusing on child safety and family reunification.
• Leading your team and providing consultation, and supervision on cases, policies, and protocols.
• Ensuring adherence to procedures, solving complex cases, and overseeing high-risk case management, including intake, assessment, and planning for child protection and children in care.
• Identifying and recommending improvements in services and implementing the Child and Family Wellbeing Practice framework.
• Building effective relationships with colleagues, departments, and community organizations to ensure positive outcomes for children and families.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of a Bachelor of Social Worker and at least five (5) years of related work experience, is required; or completion of a Master of Social Work and at least three (3) years of related experience. You must have a valid driver’s licence, have the ability to travel, and you must be registered (or be eligible for registration) with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW)

Leadership competencies and the ability to lead and manage challenging situations under stressful circumstances are essential. In addition, you:

• Demonstrate decisive confidence to make critical decisions regarding the risk to youth, children, and families and effectively support fellow social workers in doing the same.
• Have a solid theoretical and practical understanding of social work practices, family dynamics, child development, and services for persons with disabilities.
• Excel in managing crises and emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved.
• Have a thorough understanding of the Children and Family Services Act (CFSA), related acts, and other program policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Are resourceful and well-versed in the services offered by the department and other community agencies, enabling you to provide expert-level advice and support.

Additionally, you are proficient in both oral and written communication, ensuring clear and effective documentation and interaction. Your strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently with limited supervision are critical to your success in this role.
Please ensure your application demonstrates how you meet the required qualifications and experiences outlined for this position.
We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

• Administering the Child and Family Services Act and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth, and Families (FNIM) Act by developing case plans and participating in court interventions as required.
• Acting on behalf of the Minister of Community Services to make decisions on the care of children at risk through risk assessment case conferences with Child Protection Social Workers and Program Specialists.
• Working with families and children in high-stress situations, focusing on child safety and family reunification.
• Leading your team and providing consultation, and supervision on cases, policies, and protocols.
• Ensuring adherence to procedures, solving complex cases, and overseeing high-risk case management, including intake, assessment, and planning for child protection and children in care.
• Identifying and recommending improvements in services and implementing the Child and Family Wellbeing Practice framework.
• Building effective relationships with colleagues, departments, and community organizations to ensure positive outcomes for children and families