Social Service Specialist ; Child Protective Services

Social Service Specialist 1 (Child Protective Services)

Join the Oregon Department of Human Services as a Social Service Specialist 1 (Child Protective Services). This position focuses on ensuring the safety and well‑being of children and families in need of child protective services.

• Posting Date: 01/07/2026
• Final date to receive applications: 01/15/2026
• Agency:
  Department of Human Services
• Salary Range: $4,833 – $7,407
• Position Type:
  Employee

As a Child Protective Services Worker, you will protect children’s safety and support families. Using a trauma‑informed and antiracist approach, you will navigate legal requirements while balancing child and family needs.

• Safety and Support:
  Protect children’s safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers.
• 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.
• Decision‑Making:
  Analyze collected information and determine appropriate child placement and care procedures.
• Communication:
  Create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field.
• OR bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services plus one year of human services related experience or coursework consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• OR associate degree with two years of human services related experience or one year of experience plus training consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

• Experience connecting with children and families under time‑sensitive circumstances.
• Experience working independently and with a team.
• Strong time management, organization, and prioritization skills.
• Clear and concise written communication skills.
• Analytical and critical thinking skills in high‑pressure situations.
• Knowledge or experience with crisis intervention, conflict resolution, or behavior management techniques.

• In‑person position in Roseburg office and community sites.
• Typical work schedule Monday‑Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.
• Frequent local travel; occasional travel much farther may be required.
• Need to respond quickly to child safety emergencies.
• Ability to handle stressful situations involving trauma.

• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Criminal history background check and FBI fingerprint check required for finalists.
• No visa sponsorship.
• Mandatory I‑9 and E‑Verify compliance.

• Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases within the range.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.

• Veterans’ preference information and procedures.

• Permanent full‑time position; represented by SEIU.
• Recruitment may be used for future vacancies.
• Prohibited use of outside AI software during assessments.

• Recruiter:
  Brent Lawrence; email: brent.lawrencegon.gov; job requisition number:
  BD-1024-NY-OSCS

The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by equity and a commitment to diversity in all aspects of our workforce.