Protective Services Specialist (Interior Rural) Fairbanks PCN 063751

Protective Services Specialist (Interior Rural) – Fairbanks PCN 063751

Company: State of Alaska
Location: Juneau, AK, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Based on competency and experience (Protective Services Specialist 1/2)

About Us

The Office of Children’s Services (OCS), part of the Department of Family and Community Services, is committed to safeguarding Alaska’s children and strengthening families. Through a combination of child protection, assessment, and family support services, OCS partners with communities, tribal organizations, and service providers to ensure child safety, permanency, and well-being. The agency emphasizes a culture of integrity, respect, empathy, and hope, promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment. Learn more at OCS Alaska.

Key Duties

As a Protective Services Specialist (PSS), you will investigate reports of child abuse and neglect, assess family dynamics, and develop intervention plans to protect children while supporting families in strengthening their protective capacities. Responsibilities include placing children with relatives or licensed foster homes when necessary, providing in-home services, preparing court reports, coordinating with Tribal and community partners, and making referrals to relevant agencies. This role requires frequent travel to rural Interior communities, often by small aircraft, boat, or other unconventional transportation, to serve approximately 30 communities. You may also be expected to work after hours, on-call, and during emergencies or natural disasters.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate competency in stress tolerance, decision-making, advocacy, self-management, interpersonal skills, and communication (oral and written). Training or experience in social, behavioral, or health sciences, child or family case management, or related services is preferred. A valid Alaska driver’s license is required, and travel using personal vehicles may be reimbursed. Applicants will undergo a child protective history check, fingerprinting, and background screening. The position is flexibly staffed, and advancement from PSS 1 to PSS 2 is based on demonstrated competence and completion of training.

Pay & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and optional vision coverage

• Enrollment in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and Alaska Supplemental Annuity Plan (SBS)

• Paid leave for vacation, illness, and personal needs

• Probationary training period with mentorship and formal training

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education

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