Child Protective Services; CPS Worker; Social Service Specialist

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.

As a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker (Social Service Specialist
1) in the Child Welfare Program, you will conduct child safety assessments, develop service plans, coordinate medical evaluations and placements, and provide court testimony and case documentation. You will engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers to ensure safety and optimal outcomes.

• Respond to referrals, interview children, families and contacts.
• Observe home environments, conduct child safety assessments, and make determinations of abuse or neglect; take 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.
• A bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services plus: either one year of Human Services related experience; or completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• An associate degree plus: either two years of Human Services related experience; or one year of Human Services related experience with related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Degree must be completed, not in progress.

• Proficiency in writing detailed reports with accurate conclusions and recommendations.
• Experience engaging with children and families under time‑sensitive and challenging circumstances.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely to families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Organized, time‑management skills to meet deadlines.
• Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and behavior management.
• Experience adopting trauma‑informed practices with safety, trust-building and cultural sensitivity.

• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases within the specified range.
• E‑Verify, I‑9 and background checks required.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
• Employee Resource Group communities.

Veterans’ preference information is available.

The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. The position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).