Social Service Specialist . Child Protective Services; CPS Worker or Permanency Worker

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is guided by our Equity North Star. We encourage applications from a diverse range of individuals, including historically underrepresented groups, women, people with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others.

Title: Social Service Specialist1 – Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker or Permanency Worker

Agency: Department of Human Services

Location: Eugene/Springfield, Lane County, Oregon

Salary Range: $5,298 – $8,121

Position Type: Employee Position

• Respond to referrals of alleged child abuse/neglect and determine children’s safety status.
• Conduct child and parent interviews, gather collateral information, and review documents.
• Observe, document, and evaluate the home environment.
• Determine presence of abuse or neglect and initiate protective actions, including placement of children into care when appropriate.
• Develop individualized services plans, arrange medical evaluations, and locate community programs and parenting classes.
• Coordinate substitute care placements and assist with essential legal documentation and petitions.
• Attend court hearings (Permanency, criminal charges, juvenile court) and MDT meetings; provide case presentations and court reports.
• Maintain ongoing contact with children to monitor safety and well‑being; facilitate child adjustment and developmental progress.
• Support visitation between children in care, parents, and other family members; observe and provide counseling during visits as needed.
• Coordinate case management services, referrals, and regular communication with service providers for parents and children.
• Collaborate with schools to assess children’s academic goals and progress.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive case records, documentation, and data for compliance with OAR policy and procedure.
• Advise courts during citizen review board reviews and provide necessary written and verbal reports.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field.
• Or bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services plus one year of Human Services experience or completion of coursework equivalent to Oregon Caseworker Competency certification.
• Or associate degree with two years of Human Services experience, or one year of Human Services experience plus related training, coursework or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Degree must be completed, not in progress.

• Independent and collaborative work style with strong team orientation.
• Proficiency in trauma‑informed de‑escalation techniques.
• Effective time management, organization, and prioritization to meet deadlines.
• Clear and concise communication skills, both verbal and written, across diverse settings.
• Experience working with clients from varied backgrounds and using a culturally competent lens.
• Computer literacy including word processing, database navigation, Outlook, Microsoft Word, and relevant case‑management systems.

The role involves work in challenging and sometimes unsafe home environments and may require travel, weekend, and evening service. A valid Oregon driver’s license and a reliable vehicle are required. Flexibility in scheduling is essential; the typical workday is 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but hours may be adjusted to meet client needs. Occasional compensated overtime may occur.

Selected candidates will undergo a criminal history and background check, including FBI CJIS fingerprint verification. Background results may lead to disqualification. A valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are also required.

• Cost‑of‑living adjustments and annual salary increases until the top of the salary range.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement options.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Veterans’ preference and related assistance.
• Employee‑resource groups that promote shared learning and diversity.