Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Beaverton, OR

About The Position

Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA. 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 Beaverton 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! Join our dedicated Child Welfare (CWP) team in Beaverton as a Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1). 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

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.
Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and impacted communities.
Experience prioritizing work while managing competing priorities and deadlines.
Experience engaging with children and families under time-sensitive and challenging circumstances, to gather information and make informed decisions.
Experience writing reports, such as case plans, court reports and investigative reports that include conclusions and recommended action.
Experience defining and explaining complex rules and guidelines in a variety of settings.
Experience inputting and retrieve data efficiently and effectively.

Responsibilities

Safety & Wellbeing : You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
Engagement : You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.
Assessment and Interviews : 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.
Strategies : You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.
Decision-Making : Analyzing collected information, you will determine appropriate child placement, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
Communication : You will create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.