Child Protective Services Worker (Social Services Specialist 1) Salem – Bilingual Spanish Preferred
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker to join their team. This role involves protecting children's safety and supporting families through engagement, assessment, and decision-making. The position requires a trauma-informed and antiracist approach, balancing legal requirements with the needs of children and families. Responsibilities include conducting interviews, analyzing information for child placement, creating reports, and testifying in court. Bilingual Spanish skills are preferred but not required, with a 5% differential for those who qualify.
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.
- Must be able to pass a criminal history and background check.
- Must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.
- Must 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 authorized to work in the United States and will be verified by E-Verify.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual Spanish skills are preferred.
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.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
