Child Protective Services Worker; Social Service Specialist

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist
1)

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.

Opportunity awaits!

Every day, Child Protective Services Workers step into moments that matter most. In this role you will ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's children, navigating difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support. If you're seeking meaningful work that blends critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection, this work may be exactly what you're looking for.

Summary of Duties

As a Child Protective Services Worker, you will:

• Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases, taking protective action when necessary.
• Create safety and service plans that reflect each family's needs and connect them with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.
• Prepare correct case documentation, including reports, assessments, safety plans, and notes.
• Engage in child safety meetings and collaborate effectively with families, professionals, and community partners.
• Testify in court hearings and initiate court action when needed.

Minimum Qualifications

A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

• A bachelor's degree in human services or a field related to human service. Or
• A bachelor's degree unrelated to Human Services and either:
• One year of Human Services related experience. Or
• Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, or
• An associate degree and either:
• Two years of Human Services related experience. Or
• One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

Essential Attributes

• Knowledge or Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, or behavior management.
• Experience asking questions to collect key details, assessing needs, and providing proper support.
• Experience explaining complex rules and guidelines in simple clear language.
• Experience gathering information and writing professional reports with conclusions and recommendations.
• Experience engaging with people in difficult or urgent situations, helping navigate challenges and find solutions.
• Experience working with people from different backgrounds, partnering with community groups and organizations to provide resources or services.

Working Conditions

• Work will take place in offices, participants' homes, and various community locations.
• Frequent travel is needed for transporting children or families and completing case-related activities.
• Occasional overnight travel may be needed.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• There may be occasional requirements for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.
• The employee will take part in a rotating on call schedule that includes evening and weekend work.
• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses.
• You may meet situations requiring quick decision making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.
• Activities may include traversing stairs, move across uneven terrain, and helping children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.
• Work and travel may occur in hazardous weather conditions such as snow, ice, or elevated heat.

Attention all candidates! Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials.
  
  Note:
  
  Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files…