High Risk Infant Worker

Role Status: Full-time temporary vacancy available until 3 December 2027

Remuneration: AHP2 ($94,997 - $110,052) / PO2 ($94,769 - $109,787) + 12% super

Our Whyalla office is seeking a Senior Social Worker or Senior Professional Officer to join the team as a High Risk Infant Worker. You’ll provide specialist assessments and case management support for high-risk and unborn infants and their families.

This is an opportunity to work across the early intervention space, alongside families and partner services during a crucial time in an infant's life. You'll be part of a coordinated approach to supporting families, with on-the-job training and mentoring provided to help you feel comfortable and supported in the role. You can also visit our website to learn more about working with us in regional South Australia.

This is a single vacancy offered under a dual classification meaning it may be filled by either a qualified Senior Social Worker (AHP2) or Senior Professional Officer (PO2), depending on the qualification and suitability of the successful applicant.

Essential Qualification:

• AHP (Allied Health Professional) positions require applicants to hold a Social Work qualification and be eligible for full membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)
• PO (Professional Officer) positions require relevant qualifications in Community Services, Social Sciences, Human Services, Health or other related fields.

Persons of Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, who have the appropriate background and skills but do not have the essential qualification, may apply for and be engaged/assigned to the role of Social Worker and will be entitled to apply for any Allied Health Professional roles requiring a qualification in Social Work within the Department for Child Protection (DCP).

In this role, you will:

• Conduct assessments of high-risk infants and unborn child concerns in line with departmental policies and procedures
• Coordinate services and referrals to address the needs of high-risk and unborn infants, their families and carers
• Support Social Workers and Case Managers to work alongside families and carers before and after birth
• Apply a strengths-based case management approach to build on family capacity and reduce adversity
• Provide case consultation, advice and training to agency staff and professionals from other organisations.

About you:

• You have sound knowledge of infant development, including physical, social and emotional needs
• You understand the factors that influence family wellbeing and positive parenting
• You can provide guidance and advice to less experienced case workers
• You are skilled in counselling, behavioural change practice and family intervention approaches
• You value culturally inclusive practice and seek cultural consultation to support Aboriginal children and families.

Salary:

AHP2: $94,997 – $110,052 p.a. + 12% super

+4% Child Protection Allowance

+Regional financial incentive

+Professional Development Allowance and the entitlement to claim reimbursement of eligible professional development expenses

+Qualification Allowance may apply if you hold an additional qualification relevant to the role.

PO2: $94,769 - $109,787 p.a. + 12% super

+additional Child Protection Allowance.

What’s in it for you – Perks That Matter:

At DCP, these are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• A collaborative team environment, working alongside people who are committed to best practice and making a meaningful impact
• Flexible working options with tailored arrangements to help you balance work and life
• Paid Parental and Partner Leave – additional paid time to support you and your growing family
• Recognition and Growth – we celebrate your achievements and open doors to development across DCP
• Salary Packaging – reduce your taxable income with a range of pre-tax benefits
• Health and Fitness Perks – free flu vaccination plus access to more than 1,700 gyms, fitness centres and pools across Australia through our Fitness Passport program for you and your family
• Wellbeing Support - confidential Employee Assistance Program services for you and your family.

See our full list of benefits.

About DCP

The Department for Child Protection (DCP) plays a key role in the protection of children, young people and their families within South Australia. The department provides support to vulnerable children and young people to be safe, strong and connected.

Special Conditions:

• You must have a current Working With Children Check
• You must have a current Australian driver’s licence (P2 or above) and a willingness to drive
• The incumbent will undertake part of their duties within a South Australian hospital setting as required.

For a successful application you will need to respond to all points listed under the your capabilities section of the attached role description. Please also note any special conditions that may be listed.

Want to know more?

Contact Kasia Granek-Dennis – Manager for a confidential discussion

Via tel: (08) 8648 8911 or email: kasia.granek-dennis@sa.gov.au.

Our workplace reflects the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. This includes women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ communities, and those from culturally diverse backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where everyone feels supported.

To apply for this role, please click on the apply button to be redirected to the DCP Career Portal.

Applications close: 26 November 2026, 11:00 PM