CPI Investigation Worker Trainee

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) conducts investigations, services, and referrals to keep children and vulnerable adults safe. This position is for a Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigator I in Region 11, based in Beeville, TX.

• Respond promptly to crisis situations involving children who may be abused or neglected, ensuring timely intervention.
• Conduct forensic investigations of abuse or neglect reports, assess risk, and recommend services to reduce future harm.
• Observe children for signs of injury or neglect, documenting findings accurately and promptly.
• Interview parents, caregivers, reporters, medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders.
• Make safety determinations and take actions such as removing a child from family care or placing child in substitute care.
• Communicate objectively with families regarding sensitive topics related to child safety and well‑being.
• Coordinate with courts and other agencies, providing testimony when necessary.
• Maintain accurate records and complete required forms on time.
• Participate in on‑call rotations, responding after hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Build and sustain working relationships with law enforcement, judicial officials, medical professionals, and community partners.
• Prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to flexible work hours.
• Attend training, meetings, and staff sessions as required.

• Knowledge of child development and family dynamics.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Problem‑solving techniques.
• Proficiency with a personal computer.
• Willingness to travel, attend visits after 5 pm, and work nights/holidays.
• Ability to work in emotionally charged environments and home visits in isolated or high‑crime areas.

• Associate’s degree + 2 years of relevant work experience, or
• Bachelor’s degree, or
• 60+ college credit hours + 2 years relevant experience, or
• 90+ college credit hours + 1 year relevant experience.

• Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice.
• Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, or criminal justice.
• Typing and writing proficiency.

• Reliable personal vehicle with a clean driving record for the past five years.
• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Physical ability to stand, climb, and exert up to 20 pounds of force.
• Visual acuity to see objects at 20 inches or less, and at 20 feet or more.
• Travel to homes and offices 60 % of the time, including occasional overnight travel.
• Must pass a background check and, if applicable, a driver’s record check.

• 100 % paid health insurance for the employee, and 50 % for eligible family members.
• Retirement plan with lifetime monthly payments after five years of service, plus 401(k) and 457 options.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance at low rates.
• Flexible spending accounts for tax‑advantaged health and dependent‑care expenses.
• Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment.

DFPS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.