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 (Social Service Specialist 1) position may be for you! 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.

Responsibilities

• Respond to referrals interviewing children, parents, and contacts.
• Observe home environments, conduct child safety assessments, and make determinations of abuse or neglect, taking protective action when necessary.
• Develop safety and 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.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service.
• 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.
• 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 thinking critically and analyzing complex situations and information to make logical and sound decisions.
• Demonstrated organizational skills that reflect effective time management, capability to prioritize multiple competing priorities, the ability to keep clear and concise documentation and notes.
• Experience taking initiative to engage in difficult tasks and time-consuming duties that prioritize child safety.
• Demonstrated experience following instructions and directions, acting on tasks swiftly.
• Experience shifting focus in dynamic environments with changing priorities.
• Experience monitoring and assessing environments and activities to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Experience maintaining composure and professionalism while engaging hostile or challenging individuals.

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.