Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Corvallis, OR

16d

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 us as a Permanency Worker and be the bridge that connects families, understanding their dynamics and making a lasting impact on those in need in Oregon! If you are looking to make a difference, this Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker position may be for you! We are seeking a Child Protective Services (CPS) (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our Child Welfare team in Corvallis. Together, we can make a lasting impact! 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 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.
Experience of protecting children from abuse and neglect withing their own families, foster care homes, other out of home care settings.
Experience in responding to assigned referrals regarding alleged child abuse or neglect when a field assessment is necessary.
Experience making determination if abuse/neglect has occurred and taken action per OSSM as appropriate
Experience in attending Court Hearings related to CPS Assessments Staff with DDA/AAG and/or Community Partners.
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
Please include detailed work and education history.
Please make sure your application materials, including your resume and job history.
Please confirm that you have an actual degree
Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.
ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

Support Families: Play a critical role in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
Case Management : Work with diverse families, may include American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
Engage Effectively : Interact with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
Develop Strategies: Create and implement strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
Handle Documentation and Legal Duties : Conduct home visits, complete legal documentation, attend court hearings, and address child safety issues.
Balance Needs and Legal Requirements: Ensure a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
Build Rapport: Establish meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs.