Child Protective Services; CPS Worker; Social Service Specialist

Degree must be completed, not in progress. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions. There are no exceptions or grace periods for finishing a degree.

Initial Posting Date 02/13/2026

Final date to receive applications 02/23/2026

Agency Department of Human Services

Salary Range $4,954 - $7,592

Position Type Employee

Position Title Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker (Social Service Specialist
1)

Job Description 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! Imagine a role where you engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers to achieve safety and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families. Imagine yourself conducting child safety assessments through an equity and culturally relevant lens. If you’re looking to make a difference and this sounds intriguing, these Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker (Social Service Specialist
1) positions may be for you!

As an employee working within the Child Welfare Program, you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.

• Respond to referrals, interviewing children, families and contacts.
• Observe home environments, conduct child safety assessments, and make determinations of abuse or neglect, taking protective action when necessary.
• Develop service plans to meet the needs of children and families.
• Arrange medical evaluations, placements, and connect families with services and resources.
• Create reports, safety plans, assessment evaluations, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations.

• 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.
• A bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services and either:
  • One year of Human Services related experience.
  • Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• An associate degree and either:
  • Two years of Human Services related experience.
  • One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

• Proficiency in writing detailed reports, including conclusions and recommended actions, with minimal spelling or grammar issues.
• Experience engaging with children and families under time-sensitive and challenging circumstances, to gather information and make informed decisions.
• Experience communicating complex information to families, colleagues, and community partners in a clear and concise manner.
• Experience managing time, staying organized and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
• Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and behavior management.
• Experience adopting trauma-informed practices that consider individual needs, safety, trust-building, and cultural sensitivity.

A Cover Letter is Required!! 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.

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If selected as the top candidate for this…