Human Services Technician

About the position The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. This position functions as an assistant to agency staff and supervisors in providing human services to families involved in Child Protective Investigations (CPI) cases, including transportation and documentation of services provided. It also includes supervising visitations between parents and children and providing various clerical functions. The position interacts routinely with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) staff, representatives from various organizations, and the general public.

Responsibilities

• Provides transportation for clients to and from appointments as requested by caseworkers and/or Unit Supervisor.
• Observes and/or supervises parent and child visits.
• Completes appropriate forms and documentation concerning client contact including data entry into IMPACT and other agency systems.
• Maintain out-going paper and/or electronic appointment calendar for scheduling requests made by caseworkers/supervisor.
• Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations including performing various clerical duties such as typing, filing, faxing, copying, answering/receiving telephone inquiries, etc.
• Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all work-related contacts.
• Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
• Assisting the DFPS caseworker with monitoring children and ensuring needs are met during their office or community location stay to include: safety, food, hygiene, education and entertainment/recreational activities.

Requirements

• Knowledge of Child Protective Investigations
• Knowledge of community resources
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Ability to get work effectively with others.
• Ability to effectively supervise children of various ages.
• Ability to operate a personal computer, several software packages, and basic office equipment.
• Ability to work in an office supporting several staff members.
• This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions.
• Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle, and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load.
• Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license.
• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
• One-year full-time social services, clerical, secretarial, administrative support, general office, or FPS experience.
• Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.

Nice-to-haves

• Thirty semester hours from an accredited college or university.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service
• Options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness