The Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth is seeking an experienced professional to serve as a Planning/Oversight Specialist within the Office of Juvenile System Oversight. This full-time position, based in Oklahoma County, plays a critical role in strengthening oversight and accountability across systems that serve children and families.
This position is responsible for reviewing and monitoring child welfare services across Oklahoma to support quality control and continuous improvement among public and private agencies. The specialist evaluates complaints related to services provided to children and families, ensuring concerns are reviewed thoroughly and in alignment with state statutes, policies and best practices.
The role requires strong communication and analytical skills, as the specialist works closely with individuals filing complaints and coordinates with agencies involved in each case. The position also involves conducting reviews, inspections and interviews, which may require travel to juvenile facilities and other locations statewide.
Key responsibilities include:
- Reviewing and investigating complaints related to child welfare services
- Evaluating cases in alignment with statutes, policies and best practices
- Identifying violations, risks and areas for improvement across systems
- Conducting record reviews, site visits and interviews as part of investigations
- Documenting case activities and findings in the agency data system
- Preparing clear, detailed reports, letters and memoranda
- Developing reports on child deaths and near-death cases for potential public release
- Communicating professionally with complainants, families and agency partners
- Assisting with intake of complaints through the OJSO phone line, as needed
- Supporting additional agency duties as assigned
- This position requires a high level of judgment, professionalism and attention to detail. The successful candidate will be able to assess complex situations, interpret policy and law, and communicate findings clearly and effectively.
Minimum qualifications:
- Master’s degree in social work, a social or behavioral science, a related field, or a juris doctorate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- At least five years of professional experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, disability services, mental health, education, law, or a related field
- Experience working with social service or justice-related statutes, policies and procedures
Preferred knowledge and skills:
- Strong understanding of child welfare systems, investigations and permanency policies
- Knowledge of juvenile justice and youth mental health systems
- Ability to conduct interviews and complex investigations involving children and families
- Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations and agency policies across multiple systems
- Strong written communication skills, including report writing
- Cultural awareness and a commitment to ongoing learning
The position offers a salary of $61,500 and is classified as a regular, full-time role. Applications will be accepted through May 1, 2026.
The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.