Child Protective Services Worker; Social Service Specialist

Position Title

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist
1)

09/15/2026

09/30/2026

Department of Human Services

$4,954 - $7,592

Employee

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.

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.

• 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.

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.

* Degree must be completed, not in progress.

• 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.

• 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…