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! 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! Klamath Falls, Oregon Klamath Falls sits in south-central Oregon, where forested mountains meet wide‑open high desert. Known for its abundant sunshine and rich natural landscapes, the area is a gateway to Crater Lake National Park and home to the stunning Upper Klamath Lake—one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West. Outdoor lovers will find miles of hiking and biking trails, world‑class bird watching, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, paddling, and exploring volcanic geology. With its mix of adventure, wildlife, and small‑town charm, Klamath Falls offers a bright slice of Oregon’s wild beauty! City of Klamath Falls – learn what Klamath Falls has to offer! Klamath Falls ODHS Child Welfare office – understand where Klamath Falls is located. Mileage and driving distance calculator – calculate your commute. 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.
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: 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.
- Per pursuant to ORS 419B.021, states that any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions.
- Degree must be completed, not in progress.
Nice To Haves
- Experience managing competing deadlines by independently organizing workload and meeting timelines in a fast‑paced environment.
- Experience using trauma‑informed de-escalation strategies in crisis situations, including collaborating with a team to ensure safety and follow-up care.
- Experience using Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel) and entering or retrieving data from organizational databases.
- Experience collaborating with internal and external partners to complete shared projects or resolve client needs.
- Experience writing documents or reports that include a conclusion and recommended action (examples: case plans, court reports, investigative reports).
Responsibilities
- Respond to referrals, interviewing children, families and contacts.
- Observe home environments, conduct child safety assessments, and make determinations of abuse or neglect, taking protective action when necessary.
- Develop service plans to meet the needs of children and families.
- Arrange medical evaluations, placements, and connect families with services and resources.
- Create reports, safety plans, assessment evaluations, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations.
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
