Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) in Enterprise, Oregon. This role involves engaging with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers to ensure safety and achieve optimal outcomes. The position requires conducting child safety assessments with an equity and culturally relevant lens. As an employee within the Child Welfare Program, you will contribute to the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation, supporting children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma, and achieve greater well-being.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.
• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated and manage your time well.
• Demonstrated ability to use trauma-informed practices that are sensitive to the child and family’s lived experience, language, race, and culture.
• Demonstrated excellent written communication skills, including the ability to write in plain language with minimal spelling and grammar issues.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively engage with families under challenging and time-sensitive circumstances.
• Experience being a reliable resource for others and delivering high quality work in a timely manner.
• Demonstrated ability to be an active listener and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others.
• Must be able to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
• Must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.

Responsibilities

• Respond to referrals and determine whether child abuse or neglect has occurred.
• Gather information through interviews with parents and children.
• Observe and analyze the safety of home environments.
• 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.

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