Child Protective Services (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

4d•$4,954 - $7,592•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. Opportunity awaits! Step into a transformative role where your passion for the well-being of children and your ability to connect with families come together to create lasting change. Become a catalyst for positive impact in the lives of Oregon’s children and their loved ones. Are you ready to unlock the potential within every family—and make a real difference? We are currently seeking a Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our team based in the Portland office located on Davis Street. 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: 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 info into databases. Arrange medical evaluations and substitute care placement for children. Present and testify in court. Interested in learning more? Here are some testimonials from current ODHS Workers.

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 service, 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.

Nice To Haves

Experience building partnerships with community organizations, agency staff, clients, and affected communities.
Experience communicating clearly with diverse groups in both verbal and written forms.
Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.
Experience identifying client needs and connecting them to relevant and culturally responsive services.
Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
Experience providing services and resources to children and families in social services settings.

Responsibilities

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 info into databases.
Arrange medical evaluations and substitute care placement for children.
Present and testify in court.