Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Department Of Human Services • Chicago, IL

259d • $4,833 - $7,407

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 us in making a difference in the lives of children and families in need. Become a part of our dedicated team and be a part of something greater. As a Child Protective Services Worker, you will protect children's safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers. Using a trauma-informed and equitable approach, you will navigate the needs of the child and the family while balancing legal requirements. You will conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm, and address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families. You will analyze collected information, determine appropriate child placement, consider each family's unique circumstances, create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.

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 navigating basic technology and computer software programs (such as Microsoft Suite).
• Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners and people.
• Experience writing clearly and precisely with minimum spelling and grammar issues.
• Experience or knowledge of crisis intervention or conflict resolution techniques.
• Experience using critical thinking and sound judgment to make decisions.
• Experience applying an equitable and trauma-informed approach.
• Experience using time management, prioritization and organization to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Protect children's safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers.
• Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm.
• Analyze collected information and determine appropriate child placement.
• Create reports and case notes.
• Testify in court and communicate with diverse populations.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree