MAJOR FUNCTION Performs trainee duties investigating alleged child abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment in accordance with Chapter 39, Florida Statutes.

MAJOR DUTIES Note: The following duties are illustrative and not exhaustive.

The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Depending on assigned area of responsibility, incumbents in the position may perform some or all of the activities described below.

Note: Incumbents function in a trainee status under the supervision of a Child Protection Investigator to attain proficiency in the below listed duties and become eligible for promotion to a Child Protection Investigator in the Sheriff's Office.

Investigates alleged abuse, neglect, and /or abandonment of children to determine if abusive or unsafe conditions exist and takes appropriate action to ensure the safety of children.

Interviews children and adults concerning allegations of abuse, neglect and/or abandonment to ascertain the validity of allegations, document living conditions, and determine the need to remove children from an unsafe environment.

Informs clients of available social service programs to assist them with their needs.

Conducts followup visits to ensure the safety of children is being maintained and support programs are inplace.

Testifies in court to accurately relate the circumstances of cases investigated.

Establishes and maintains case management files, to include computer databases, to provide accurate recording and availability of case information.

Performs other related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES Considerable knowledge of the theories and practices used in child protection and family support.

Working knowledge federal, state and local laws governing child protection.

Working knowledge of professional ethics related to child protection investigations.

Working knowledge of Federal, State, County and community social service programs available for child protection and family support.

Working knowledge of investigative techniques.

Working knowledge of court procedures related to child protection proceedings.

Ability to collect, organize, and evaluate information and develop logical conclusions.

Ability to interview children and adults to determine the validity of allegations.

Ability to apply crisis intervention techniques.

Ability to maintain composure during court testimony and cross examination.

Ability to work effectively with others.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to work under stressful conditions.

Ability to handle confidential information.

Ability to work nights, week ends and holidays.

Ability to use a computer and related software.

Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Note: Minimum Qualifications MUST be attained before the recruitment ending date.

Graduation from an accredited four year degree granting college or university; and Possession of a valid Driver License.

ORAn Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university; andOne year of experience investigating child abuse allegations; assessing client's needs and eligibility for social services, community services, legal or medical services; or counseling clients; andPossession of a valid Driver License.

ORGraduation from high school or possession of a GED Certificate; andThree years of experience investigating child abuse allegations; assessing client's needs and eligibility for social services, community services, legal or medical services; or counseling clients; andPossession of a valid Driver License.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION AT TIME OF APPLICATION If you believe that you qualify for this position based upon education or training you have received, you will be required to provide a copy of your official college transcripts or copy of diploma from the accredited college/university, and/or a copy of a certificate indicating your successful completion of any required training, before your qualifications will be evaluated.

Note: If you will be faxing copies to the Civil Service Office, please include your full name and last four digits of your social security number, and fax the required documents to (813) 272 - 5620.

APPOINTING AUTHORITY REQUIRES A background investigation prior to initial hiring; and Possession of a valid State of Florida Child Protection Professional Certification within the probationary period.

« Apply for CHILD PROTECTION INVESTIGATOR TRAINEE: Civil Service Office of Hillsborough