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! Engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers to achieve safety and optimal outcomes for Oregon's children and families. Join us in making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.

Responsibilities

• Respond to referrals regarding alleged child abuse or neglect when an assessment is necessary.
• Complete comprehensive risk and safety assessments.
• Determine whether abuse or neglect has occurred and identify child safety threats.
• Develop protective actions and ongoing safety plans when children would be unsafe without intervention of the agency.
• Review and evaluate ongoing progress.
• Engage with children and families to provide service in a regular, systematic way.
• Advance the agency's goals of becoming trauma-informed, anti-racist, and accessible to all regardless of identity status.

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 using trauma-informed practices that are responsive to the child and family's language, race, and culture.
• Experience articulating observations in verbal and written reports.
• Experience engaging with families under challenging and time-sensitive circumstances.
• Experience de-escalating emotionally charged situations.
• Experience assessing complex situations with a trauma-informed approach.
• Experience adapting with ease to changing environments and priorities.
• Experience working with a team to reach a common goal.
• Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.

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.