Paid Intern – Investigations or Alternative Care

Job Description

Paid Intern | State of Missouri

The Tone:
This is an in-person internship opportunity with the State of Missouri, with base locations in Howell County, Oregon County, or Shannon County. The State of Missouri’s Department of Social Services is a public service organization dedicated to partnering with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth, and guide families toward self-sufficiency so that Missourians can lead safe, healthy, and productive lives. This role is crucial for assisting at-risk children and families, providing essential services in either investigations or alternative care to make a tangible difference in their lives.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Location: In-person, Howell County, Oregon County, or Shannon County, MO
• Team: Children’s Division, focused on either investigations or alternative care
• Mission: To support at-risk children and families by providing direct paraprofessional services and assisting with case goals.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Case Management: Maintain comprehensive case files, correspondence, and confidential client information in both paper and electronic formats.
• Client Coaching: Coach clients to foster a positive family unit in support of their family’s case goals and plans.
• Parent Education: Offer instruction and guidance to parents on child development and effective child-rearing techniques.
• Life Skills Support: Assist with activities of daily living, including goal setting, planning, and other related activities to manage a home and basic life skills.
• Resource Navigation: Educate parents on how to access available community resources.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Current pursuit of a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s Degree, in addition to a High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience: Valid driver’s license with the legal ability to operate a motor vehicle and consistent access to transportation for field duties such as home visits, client transport, and meetings. Successful completion of criminal background checks and the Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect.
• Skills: Excellent problem-solving and time management skills, along with strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Bonus: Ability to travel throughout the State of Missouri as needed.