What You'll Be Doing

Wake County Child Welfare currently serves more than 500 children in foster care — and over one-third are adolescents or young adults. We are seeking a dedicated Permanency Planning Social Worker to work primarily with youth ages 13–17 and their families, making a direct and lasting impact during a critical stage in their lives.

In this role, you will work closely with our LINKS Coordinator and other team members to help adolescents and prepare them for successful adulthood. You’ll provide case management, coordinate services, and advocate for the unique needs of teens in foster care while collaborating with caregivers, service providers, and community partners.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Gather and review information to develop comprehensive family assessments; create individualized case plans in collaboration with youth and families, identifying strengths and needs
• Service Coordination: Facilitate Child and Family Team meetings, Permanency Planning Reviews, and introductory meetings between parents and foster parents. Ensure all team members have the necessary information to initiate and maintain services
• Plan and lead engaging, educational activities for adolescents in foster care; promote access to resources, life skills training, and opportunities for personal growth
• Conduct regular visits with youth, parents, and caregivers to assess safety, wellbeing, and progress. Supervise family visits, coordinate with service providers, and ensure youth receive needed supports
• Prepare court reports, testify at hearings, and maintain accurate, timely case documentation in accordance with guidelines
• Educate social workers and community partners about the needs of older youth in foster care and advocate for enhanced resources
  
  
  

If you’re passionate about empowering adolescents, improving access to resources, and helping youth build a strong foundation for adulthood, we want to hear from you. Come make a difference — and see why others choose to live, work, and play in Wake County.

About

About Our Team

The Wake County Department of Social Services team is grounded in a deep commitment to connection, compassion, and community. We bring together experienced professionals who collaborate to support individuals and families through complex challenges, connect them with critical resources, and promote long-term stability. We value insight, innovation, and a solutions-focused approach, and we welcome those who are ready to contribute their expertise to meaningful, community-centered work. Join us in making a lasting difference!

Required

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field
• Three years of job-related experience
• Completion of the NC Child Welfare Education Collaborative (CWEC) traineeship can be substituted for 1 year of experience
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted
• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.
  
  
  

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Current NC Child Welfare Pre-Service Training
• Public child welfare experience in a Department of Social Service in NC
• Experience working with adolescents and young adults in the foster care system
  
  
  

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

• Detail oriented and able to produce accurate documentation
• Advanced critical thinking skills
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A high level of energy with a results driven attitude suited to work in a fast paced environment
• Detailed understanding of Child Welfare practice
• Strong team member
• Group Facilitation
• Must understand the importance of shared parenting and family connections
• Must understand the importance of achieving timely permanence for youth in foster care
  
  
  

Must be a strong advocate for adolescents and transition aged-youth in foster care About This Position

Location: HSC Swinburne Raleigh, NC 27610

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 5:15 pm

Hiring Range: 29.60 - 39.96 Commensurate with Experience

Market Range: 29.60 - 50.33

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 8/25/2025

What Makes Wake Great Equal Opportunity Statement Background Check Statement Emergency Service Worker Statement

What Makes Wake Great

Home to the State Capital, Wake County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation and the most populous county in the state, with more than 1.1 million residents. The County has received national and international rankings and accolades from publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time magazines as being one of the best places to live, work and play. The central location of the County allows for a short drive to the spectacular mountains or coast. Wake County Government is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve two-year terms. Wake County Government has a general operating budget of $1.874 billion, employs over 4400 employees, experiences minimal turnover, and is an award-winning leader in wellness and technology initiatives; such as offering employees and covered spouses free access to the Employee Health Center. Wake County Government offers a wide range of training and development opportunities, a stable career in public service with a balance of work and family life, flexible work schedules and a competitive salary and benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check Statement

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.