CPI Investigation Worker Trainee

Posting

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
  —time off that is paid
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance at rates lower than most private plans
• Flexible spending accounts for tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) conducts investigations to protect children and vulnerable adults. The incumbent will investigate child abuse and neglect claims, interview families, law enforcement, medical personnel, schools, and other stakeholders to determine risk, safety issues, and recommend services.

• Respond quickly to crisis situations involving potential child abuse or neglect.
• Conduct forensic investigations to determine whether abuse or neglect occurred, and assess risks of future harm.
• Observe children for signs of harm and assess whether they result from abuse or neglect.
• Interview parents, caregivers, reporters, family members, and other relevant individuals.
• Assess child safety and take actions to protect the child, including removal from family if necessary.
• Communicate frankly and objectively with families about sensitive matters.
• Coordinate actions to remove or reduce threats to child safety, including working with community resources and testifying in court.
• Document all relevant information and complete required forms accurately and timely.
• Gather family and kinship information to support placement of children in DFPS custody.
• Participate in on‑call rotations after normal business hours, including overnight and weekend.
• Develop and maintain relationships with law enforcement, judicial, legal, medical, and community partners.
• Prioritize tasks to meet constant deadlines and work flexible hours.
• Maintain objectivity and empathy for families in crisis.
• Attend training, meetings, and staffing sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned to maintain unit operations.
• Promote respect for cultural diversity and competency.
• Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.

• Knowledge of child development and family dynamics.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Skill in problem‑solving techniques.
• Ability to operate a personal computer.
• Ability to travel to child and family visits after 5 pm.
• Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours.
• Ability to work in emotionally charged environments and conduct home visits in isolated or high‑crime areas.

Must have a reliable motor vehicle, a valid Texas driver’s license, and proof of driving record and insurance. Vehicle will be used for job functions.

Child Protective Investigations (CPI), Specialist I:
Bachelor’s degree or Associate’s degree + 2 years relevant experience or 60 accredited college credit hours + 2 years experience or 90 accredited college credit hours + 1 year experience
.

CPI Specialist II: same educational options as I; additional experience of 2 years, or participation in certification programs.

CPI Specialist III: same educational options; experience of 2 years or 1 year for 90 credit hours; plus certification credentials.

CPI Specialist IV: same educational options; experience of 3 years (24 months for III) and requisite advanced certification.

• Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field.
• Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice.
• Typing and writing proficiency.

Position may be filled at any level from CPI Specialist I to IV. Salary may vary by education and experience. Eligible employees receive a $416.66 monthly increase after 120 days of tenure. Position is mobile; most work is conducted on tablets. A DFPS cellular phone will be…