Child Protective Services CPS (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Beaverton, OR

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

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. The mission of Oregon's Child Welfare Program is to ensure every child and family is empowered to live a safe, stable and healthy life. We are part of a larger statewide social system that works to support children, families and communities. We partner with Tribal nations to implement the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act and honor our government-to-government relationship. Child Welfare focuses on keeping families together whenever it is safe to do so. 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, this Child Protective Services Worker position may be for you! Join our Beaverton Child Welfare team as a Child Protective Services Worker and be the bridge that connects families, understands their dynamics, and makes a lasting impact on those in need in Oregon! If you are looking to make a difference, this Child Protective Services Worker position may be for you! Join our dedicated Child Welfare (CWP) team in Beaverton as a Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1). Together, we can create lasting change!

Requirements

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 1) One year of Human Services related experience; OR 2) Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency; OR An associate degree and either: 1) Two years of Human Services related experience; OR 2) 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.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge or Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, or behavior management.
Experience asking questions to collect key details, assessing needs, and providing appropriate support.
Experience explaining complex rules and guidelines in simple clear language.
Experience gathering information and writing professional reports with conclusions and recommendations.
Experience engaging with people in difficult or urgent situations, helping navigate challenges and find solutions.
Experience working with people from different backgrounds, partnering with community groups and organizations to provide resources or services.

Responsibilities

Play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
Engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.
Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm.
Address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
Develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.
Analyze collected information to determine child safety, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
Create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.