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! Ready to turn your passion for safeguarding children and strengthening families into a rewarding career? Look no further! The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking compassionate individuals to join our team and help us create lasting, positive transformations in the lives of Oregon's most vulnerable children and families. Join our Portland Eastside (Glisan Street) or Gresham 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! We are seeking multiple Child Protective Services Workers (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our Portland (Glisan Street) or Gresham Child Welfare team. Together, we can create lasting change! 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
- 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.
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Experience screening and assessing clients’ needs to determine appropriate community and culturally responsive resources, as well as partnering agency programs or services.
- Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.
- Demonstrated understanding of working with diverse populations.
- Demonstrated proficient verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to write in plain language and communicate clearly.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively to meet deadlines, and utilize computer skills proficiently.
Responsibilities
- Protect children’s safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers. Using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach.
- Navigate the needs of the child and the family while balancing legal requirements.
- Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm. You will also address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
- Analyzing collected information, you will determine appropriate child placement, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
- You will create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.
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
