CPS Family Based Safety Services Worker- DFPS Interns

Overview

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. This posting is for CPS Family Based Safety Services Worker- DFPS Interns Only (15372).

Job details include agency, region, posting number, salary range, shift, travel, and location information as provided in the posting.

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years, plus options for 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

• Responds quickly in crisis situations.
• Provides time-limited in-home services to meet family needs, develops treatment plans, and uses resources to minimize risk and ensure child safety.
• Assesses child safety and takes appropriate actions, including removal from the home when necessary.
• Interacts objectively with caretakers who have abused or neglected children in their care.
• Discusses issues related to income, money management, and personal relationships that may be sensitive.
• Interacts with angry or fearful family members and helps identify resources and community support.
• Supports parents in recognizing behaviors that lead to child abuse/neglect and promotes behavioral change.
• Determines actions to address immediate threats to child safety, including crisis interventions and referrals to community resources.
• Gathers family and kinship information to support placement decisions if DFPS custody is involved.
• Documents information gathered during investigations and completes required forms accurately and timely.
• Works flexible hours beyond 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday, as needed.
• Maintains objectivity and empathic understanding in high-stress environments.
• Develops and maintains relationships with law enforcement, judicial, medical, and community resources.
• Attends trainings, meetings, and staffings; performs other duties as assigned to support unit operations.
• Promotes cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and contacts.
• Maintains regular attendance in accordance with agency leave policies.

• Knowledge of child development and family dynamics.
• Effective verbal and written communication; ability to establish and maintain relationships.
• Problem-solving skills; computer proficiency.
• Ability to travel and attend child and family visits, including after 5 p.m.
• On-call availability and ability to work irregular hours.
• Ability to work in emotionally charged environments and conduct home visits in challenging conditions.

This position requires use of the applicant's personal vehicle with a valid Texas driver's license and acceptable driving record; proof of driving record, insurance, and license may be required.

Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Worker I–IV: qualifications vary by level and include combinations of degree (Bachelor or Associate), credit hours, and relevant experience; examples of relevant experience include paid or volunteer work in social service agencies or at-risk populations. Specific progression criteria are detailed in the posting.

• Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Human Development and Family Studies, Education, or Public Health.
• Experience in government or nonprofit settings related to child protection, foster care, juvenile justice, mental health, or substance abuse services.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care or interviewing/assessing children and families.

This position may be filled at any level from Worker I to Worker IV. Starting salary may reflect education and experience. The role is in a mobile unit, with work performed using mobile technology; travel up to 60% is expected. State-provided cellular phone may be issued to new hires in eligible positions.

Other standard information includes travel expectations, background checks, E-Verify, accessibility commitments, and accommodations during the hiring process. Applicants must comply with applicable state policies and provide required documentation on day one.