Child Protective Services Worker (Social Services Specialist 1) Salem – Bilingual Spanish Preferred

State of Oregon • Salem, OR

22h • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to equity and diversity, encouraging applications from historically underrepresented groups. This role offers a transformative opportunity to impact the well-being of children and families by understanding their needs and circumstances to create safe, positive, and lasting change. As an employee within the Child Welfare Program, the position aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families, supporting the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation to ensure children and young adults are safer, healthier, experience less trauma, and achieve greater well-being.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• 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.
• Degree must be completed, not in progress.
• Experience engaging trauma-impacted families from diverse backgrounds in person-centered assessments.
• Experience engaging with community partners and organizations to support families from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience contributing to a safe learning environment that supports growth mindset, well-being, and belonging within a team.
• Experience with dynamic workflow management in a high-volume environment.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual language skills in English & Spanish to assist with a need in the communities that we serve.

Responsibilities

• Protect children’s safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers, using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach.
• Navigate the needs of the child and the family while balancing legal requirements.
• Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect or harm.
• Address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
• Analyze collected information to determine appropriate child placement, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
• Create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.

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.
• 5% Bilingual Language differential (base salary increase) for those that qualify as bilingual (and have successfully passed the testing for proficiency).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level