ICWA/CFS Caseworker in Mashpee, Massachusetts at Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe

Job Summary: The ICWA/Child and Family Services (CFS) Caseworker is a key member of the ICWA Services team, providing social services that strengthen Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal families and protect the safety and well-being of children. In compliance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Caseworker assesses family safety, strengths, and needs, develops and monitors case plans, and connects families to Tribal and community resources. Working with other Tribal departments and outside agencies, the Caseworker helps maximize family well-being and the academic success of children.

Essential Duties:

• Screens families to determine eligibility for services, so those in need receive timely support.
• Gathers medical, psychological, social, employment, and school information and evaluates each client's capacities, producing accurate assessments of family needs.
• Identifies barriers such as family adjustment, finances, employment, food, clothing, housing, and physical or mental impairments, and determines their nature and degree so service plans target the right needs.
• Advises clients individually, in families, or in small groups on plans for meeting needs, helping them mobilize internal capacities and resources to improve social functioning.
• Makes monthly home visits to monitor family safety and progress and keep case plans current.
• Refers clients to community resources and coordinates available resources to meet family needs, connecting families to services that enhance their quality of life.
• Works in coordination with all appropriate departments, agencies, groups, and individuals as part of the team effort to support MWT families and their children, and maintains contact with partner organizations to exchange and update information on available resources and services.
• Documents case contacts and maintains accurate, current case files, case plans, and records of assessments and activities; prepares summaries, reports, and correspondence; and participates in regular case file reviews to support sound decisions and accountability.
• Attends and participates in court hearings as necessary to represent the needs of children and families in legal proceedings.
• Interprets needs, programs, and services to the agencies, groups, and individuals involved so they can provide effective assistance.
• Evaluates service needs and assists in researching and developing resources to close service gaps.
• Stays informed of internal and external programs available to Tribal Members and remains current on issues affecting families, children, and the Tribe, and on Federal and State legislation and regulations related to social service delivery, so services remain relevant and compliant.
• Collaborates with the Department of Children & Families (DCF) on ICWA trainings and presentations to promote shared understanding of ICWA requirements.
• Maintains strict client confidentiality and familiarity with the Indian Child Welfare Act to protect family privacy and ensure compliant practice.
• All other duties as assigned in support of ICWA department operations and in alignment with the goals of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

• Knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), child welfare practice, and the Federal, State, and Tribal laws and regulations governing child and family services.
• Knowledge of social work principles, case management, and family assessment methods, including evaluating child safety, abuse/neglect, and family strengths and needs.
• Ability to work cooperatively with Tribal departments, the Department of Children & Families (DCF), courts, and community agencies, and to navigate bureaucratic procedures.
• Ability to identify and resolve client and case problems in a timely manner.
• Ability to manage difficult or emotional family situations with professionalism and compassion, and to respond promptly to client requests for services and assistance.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of client and case information.
• Ability to speak clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations, including with families, court personnel, and partner agencies.
• Ability to write clear, accurate, and well-edited case notes, reports, and correspondence.
• Demonstrates respect and sensitivity toward Tribal citizens and Native American culture and traditions.
• Works with integrity and ethically, consistent with professional social work standards.
• Follows policies and procedures.
• Adapts to changes in the work environment and shifting case priorities.
• Exercises sound, accurate judgment and responds effectively under pressure.
• Follows instructions and responds to management direction.
• Treats others with respect and consideration, regardless of their status or position.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field. Master's Degree in Social work preferred.
• Two (2) or more years of experience in social work or related field required. Must have some knowledge of Indian Country.
• State Licensure in Social Work (LSW) desired.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Work is performed primarily in a typical office environment with occasional exposure to outside elements and may require evening or weekend meetings.
• The position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, stoop, lift light office materials, operate standard office equipment, and read documents for general and analytical purposes. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license required.
• Successful completion of a background check and drug screening required.
• Ability to travel for official business and attend occasional evening or weekend meetings as needed.