Child Protection Specialist

Job Description Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. DCFS is deeply committed to the welfare and protection of children. Our goal is to protect children by strengthening and supporting families. In every effort, from receiving hotline calls to reaching family reunification or foster care and adoption, children and families are our focus. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as Child Protection Specialist. Under direction, this position will receive and investigate reports of alleged child abuse/neglect within mandated time limits. The position assesses the immediate safety of children and initiates appropriate levels of child protection needed. This position provides a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about children and interested in playing a role in ensuring the safety of children and youth. Benefits: * Medical, dental and vision insurance * Life insurance * Pension plan * Paid time off Responsibilities: * Prepares and maintains a variety of reports, assessments, and case documentation * Selects, summarizes, and presents case material for transfer to permanency caseworker or intact/prevention caseworker * Determines the need for and coordinates the placement of children in substitute care facilities. * Attends multi-disciplinary diagnostic and technical staff conferences to assess needed services. * Transports clients when taking protective custody, when placing them in substitute care, and when changing placement location Requirements: * Preferably requires a master's degree in social work OR Requires a master's degree in a related human service field, in criminal justice, criminal justice administration, or law enforcement and one year of directly related professional experience; OR Requires a bachelor's degree in social work and one year of directly related professional experience; OR Requires a bachelor's degree in a related human service field, in criminal justice, criminal justice administration, or law enforcement and two years of directly related professional experience. * Directly related professional casework/case management experience related to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling and advocacy services or a related field. * The college or university issuing a bachelor's or master's degree must be accredited, and the degree program in social work must be approved by the Council on Social Work Education. Plan to attend and meet face-to-face with hiring managers. Candidates will be considered for this position whether or not you attend the job fair. Pre-Register online at: https://catalystcareergroup.com/event/tinley -park-job-fair-6-2026/ Tinley Park Job Fair Monday, June 22, 2026 10:00AM - 12:30PM Tinley Park Convention Center 18501 Convention Center Drive Tinley Park, IL 60477 All of the companies at our job fairs have open positions they are seeking to fill. Tips for Success: * Pre-register—Receive notifications of any updates or changes to the event, and receive information about upcoming events in your area. * Dress professionally—First impressions go a long way. * Bring multiple copies of your resume. * Doors open at 10:00 AM and the Job Fair ends at 12:30 PM * Bring a friend—All job seekers are welcome. * Prepare a brief but effective "brag" to let the people you meet get to know you. * Keep an open mind—Meet with as many of the companies as you can; you may be pleasantly surprised at what you find. Remember, the best way to be considered for a position is to meet the hiring managers in person. Plan to attend this event! (Candidates will be considered for this position whether or not you attend the job fair.) Pre-Register online at: https://catalystcareergroup.com/event/tinley -park-job-fair-6-2026/