Child Protective Services Worker; Social Services Specialist Salem – Bilingual

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Services Specialist
1) Salem – Bilingual Spanish Preferred

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!

Step into a transformative role where your passion for the well-being of children and your understanding of the intricate dynamics of a child's needs and family circumstances is a critical part of creating a safe, positive lasting change. Imagine a world where every family thrives – Are you ready to be the catalyst for that change?

Bilingual Preferred (Not Required)– English & Spanish

You do not need to be bilingual to apply for this position. This position prefers bilingual language skills in English & Spanish to assist with a need in the communities that we serve. If you are bilingual, you will be tested for your speaking and writing bilingual language skills in English and Spanish. For those that qualify as bilingual (and have successfully passed the testing for proficiency) ODHS will pay a 5% Bilingual Language differential (base salary increase).

Summary of Duties

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.

As a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker you will:

• Safety and Support:
  Protect children's safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers. Using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach.
• A Balancing Act:
  Navigate the needs of the child and the family while balancing legal requirements.
• Assessment and Interviews:
  Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect or harm. You will also address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
• Decision-Making:
  Analyzing collected information, you will determine appropriate child placement, considering each family's unique circumstances.
• Communication:
  You will create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.
• Per pursuant to ORS 419B.021, states that any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions. Degree must be completed, not in progress. There are no exceptions or grace periods for finishing a degree.

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 services;

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. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions. There are no exceptions or grace periods for finishing a degree.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience engaging trauma-impacted families from diverse backgrounds in person-centered assessments.
• Experience engaging with community partners and organizations to support families from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience contributing to a safe learning environment that…