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! Join our Grants Pass Child Welfare team as a Child Protective Services Worke r 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! Summary of Duties As a Child Protective Services Worker , you will: Investigate reports of safety concerns for Oregon's children and families. This includes conducting child safety assessments of alleged child abuse or neglect, evaluating whether a child has been or is currently at risk of being harmed and, if needed, determining appropriate services to ensure child safety. Engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers in a multitude of ways to achieve the safety and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families. All engagement will be conducted through a trauma-informed and antiracist lens. Conduct child safety assessments of alleged child abuse or neglect to determine if a child has been or is at risk of being harmed. Balance the needs of the child and the family in conjunction with balancing legal requirements. Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews to assess mental, physical, environmental, and social status of the caregiver. Analyze interview information to determine appropriate child placement. All determinations are made in consideration of each family's unique circumstances. 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. To gain insight, watch this video on Child Protective Services operations.
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.
Nice To Haves
- Experience communicating effectively with diverse audiences, adapting messaging as needed, and writing reports that analyze situations and provide recommendations.
- Experience engaging with children and families in challenging situations, gathering critical information, and making informed decisions that respect their backgrounds, language, and culture.
- Experience using problem-solving and creative thinking, finding solutions that meet the unique needs of families.
- Experience working collaboratively in teams, consistently contributing and stepping in to support colleagues.
- Experience committing to equity and trauma-informed practices, ensuring fairness and sensitivity when working with people from different backgrounds.
- Experience managing a demanding workload, handling multiple tasks under pressure, and meeting deadlines in fast-paced environments.
- Experience handling emotionally escalated situations, maintaining composure under stress, and managing high intensity work effectively.
Responsibilities
- Investigate reports of safety concerns for Oregon's children and families.
- Conduct child safety assessments of alleged child abuse or neglect, evaluating whether a child has been or is currently at risk of being harmed and, if needed, determining appropriate services to ensure child safety.
- Engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers in a multitude of ways to achieve the safety and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families. All engagement will be conducted through a trauma-informed and antiracist lens.
- Conduct child safety assessments of alleged child abuse or neglect to determine if a child has been or is at risk of being harmed.
- Balance the needs of the child and the family in conjunction with balancing legal requirements.
- Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews to assess mental, physical, environmental, and social status of the caregiver.
- Analyze interview information to determine appropriate child placement.
- 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 .
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
