Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)
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 Midtown Portland office located on Davis Street.
Requirements
- 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.
- A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
Nice To Haves
- Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and impacted communities.
- Experience preparing detailed narrative documentation and court reports for individual client cases for judicial proceedings.
- Experience adopting trauma-informed practices that consider individual needs, safety, trust-building, and cultural sensitivity.
- Experience adapting communication style to ensure clarity and foster understanding amongst diverse audiences such as public speaking, individual client inquiries, court testimonies, and attorneys and judges.
- Experience navigating technology, inputting and retrieving data, and using various computer systems or databases to verify information accurately.
- Experience providing services and resources to children and families in social services settings.
- Experience with case management which includes assessing individual needs, developing and implementing personalized action plans, monitoring progress, and collaborating with various service providers to ensure comprehensive support.
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.
Benefits
- ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
- Cost of Living Adjustments.
- Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
- Amazing benefits package.
- Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
