Child care social worker

Lastenvalvoja is a meaningful and diverse social work expert role focused on acting in the best interests of children and supporting families through transitions. The position is located in Kajaani, with three other child welfare social workers in Kajaani and one in Sotkamo, and the work primarily serves the Kajaani area while clients are served across Kainuu. Some duties can be performed remotely. Responsibilities include preparing and confirming agreements concerning child custody, residence, and visitation and child support, assessing legality and the child's best interests; handling arrangements for supported and supervised visits; carrying out tasks related to parenting determination and recognition under the Parenting Act; providing guidance, counseling and service navigation for families undergoing divorce and family-law matters; jointly with other child welfare workers and, if necessary, social workers from the child welfare clinic, preparing welfare assessments for the court on child custody, residence and visitation matters; participating in network cooperation and service development. The role requires ability to evaluate the best interests of the child, excellent communication and negotiation skills, and an independent working style. The candidate should be prepared to handle family situations related to separation and promote amicable solutions. Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills are required, along with flexibility and the ability to work constructively with families, colleagues and networks. Preferred but not mandatory is knowledge of child welfare-related legislation and experience with matters concerning child custody, residence, visitation and parental separation. We offer induction, group supervision, partial remote work, supportive colleagues and supervisor, and opportunities for training and development; company-provided lease cars are available for client work. A licensed social worker is required by law; if no eligible candidate is found, a trainee who has completed the basic and subject studies and practical training may be appointed for a fixed term. Vaccination protection under Infectious Diseases Act is required. Salary is determined according to the task’s difficulty assessment by Kainuun sotem and is 4286.27 € per month. Start date is 21.9.2026 or as agreed; probation is six months. Applications close 14.9.2026 at 15:00; interviews may begin during the application period. Before confirmation of the selection, a health declaration and a criminal background check are required; employees may be tested for alcohol and other substances.