Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Albany, OR

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking compassionate individuals to join our team and help us create lasting, positive transformations in the lives of Oregon's most vulnerable children and families. Join our Albany Child Welfare team as a Child Protective Services Worker 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! We are seeking a Child Protective Services Worker to join our Albany Child Welfare team.

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 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; 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.
Experience communicating effectively to diverse groups of people with the ability to adjust communication style to the receiving audience.
Ability to write significant documentation that includes an analysis and recommended action (examples: case plans, court reports, investigative reports) and have ability to complete high volume documentation.
Ability to engage children and families under time-sensitive and difficult circumstances, to gather information and make informed decisions that are inclusive of the child and the family’s language, race, and culture.
Demonstrated ability in critical thinking skills, problem solving and creativity or innovation to meet a family’s unique needs.
Demonstrated ability to successfully work within a team using consistent engagement, contribution, and willingness to jump in and help.
Demonstrated ability to be inclusive of diverse backgrounds and circumstances with a commitment to conducting work through an equity and trauma informed lens.
Experience managing a case load and demonstrated skills of being able to multi-task in high-stress situations while meeting time sensitive deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to work through emotionally escalated situations, effectively manage stress and a demanding workload.
Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.

Nice To Haves

A cover letter is encouraged but not required.

Responsibilities

Investigate reports of safety concerns for Oregon's children and families.
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.
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.