Child Protective Services Worker; Social Service Specialist

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist
1) – La Grande office

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 aims to provide safer, healthier environments and a greater well‑being for children and young adults.

• Respond to referrals and determine whether child abuse or neglect has occurred.
• Gather information through interviews with parents and children.
• Observe and analyze the safety of home environments.
• Gather collateral information from school personnel, doctors, therapists, and law enforcement officers.
• Fulfill documentation requirements and enter information into databases.
• Arrange medical evaluations and substitute care placement for children.
• Present and testify in court.

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• A bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field.
• A bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services and one year of related experience; or completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• An associate degree and either two years of Human Services related experience; or one year of Human Services related experience plus related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

• Self‑motivated and able to manage time effectively.
• Proficient in trauma‑informed practices that respect children and families’ lived experience, language, race, and culture.
• Excellent written communication skills with a focus on plain language and minimal errors.
• Ability to engage families under challenging and time‑sensitive circumstances.
• Reliable resource for others, delivering high‑quality work in a timely manner.
• Active listening skills and effective emotional management for self and others.

• Work conducted in offices, participant's homes, and community sites.
• Schedule Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM PT with possible overtime for evening or weekend needs.
• Required participation in an on‑call rotation for child protective services.
• Frequent travel, sometimes remote and in hazardous weather conditions.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma and potentially emotional challenges.
• Need for quick decision‑making to ensure safety, which may be trauma‑inducing.

• Completion of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security I‑9 form within three days of hire; E‑Verify will be used.
• Criminal history and background check; adverse history may lead to disqualification.
• FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) fingerprint‑based criminal records check for finalists.
• Adherence to ORS 419B.021 educational requirements for child protective investigations or custody determinations.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases up to the top of the listed range.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.