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The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Office of American Indian Health. The American Indian Child and Family Program Officer is assigned to the Office of American Indian Health (OAIH) and collaborates closely with Child and Family Services Division (CFSD) and stakeholders to improve understanding and implementation of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). In addition, this position focuses on efforts to address the disproportionality of indigenous people in foster care in Montana. Key responsibilities include: 1) Serving as a resource for tribal social services, tribal leaders, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs; 2) Providing staff assistance with interpretation of ICWA; 3) Providing ICWA training to tribal staff as federal regulations are updated or changed; and 4) Initiating and managing efforts, including though the measurement and monitoring of outcomes, to address disproportionality of indigenous people in foster care in Montana. * * Why Join DPHHS * * Our mission at DPHHS is to serve Montanans in their communities to improve and protect the health, safety, and well-being, and to empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents. TheState of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience. Qualifications for this Career Opportunity * * * General knowledge of Child Protective Service practices. * General knowledge of the Indian Child Welfare Act. * General knowledge of Title IV-E of the Social Security Act. * Effective written and oral communication skills. * Ability to develop cooperative working relationships. * Ability to analyze information and evaluate results to choose the best solutions to solve problems. * Ability to operate a personal computer and general office equipment as necessary to complete essential functions, including using spreadsheets, word processing, database, email, internet, and other computer programs. * Meet minimum qualifications: o Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, public health, Native American Studies, or a related field. o Knowledge of American Indian culture, history, and traditions, with a demonstrated commitment to cultural competency and humility. o Experience working with American Indian communities and families, preferably in a child welfare or social services context. o Familiarity with ICWA and other relevant laws and policies affecting American Indian children and families. o Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. o Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. o Proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Office and database management systems. o Willingness to travel locally and regionally as needed, and availability for occasional evening or weekend work. * Preferred Qualifications: o Certification or licensure in social work or a related field. o Fluency in an American Indian language. * * * * How to Apply To be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position. * Cover Letter * Resume * References Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below. Additional Information This position may be eligible for partial telework within the state of Montana. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy. This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.50 an hour base pay increase effective July 1, 2024. The primary location for this position is Helena, MT, but is open for consideration contingent on available workspace. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state and DPHHS policies. This position may be eligible for moving and relocation reimbursement. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to DPHHS policy. This position is open until filled with frequent screening of applicants. Title: American Indian Child and Family Specialist Location: Helena Requisition ID: 24141754 Other Locations: Billings, Missoula, Miles City, Kalispell, Havre, Glasgow, Butte, Bozeman, Great Falls