Social Service Specialist 1. Child Protective Service Worker

State of Oregon•Corvallis, OR

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! Ready to turn your passion for safeguarding children and strengthening families into a rewarding career? Look no further! 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 us as a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker and be the bridge that connects families, understanding their dynamics and making a lasting impact on those in need in Oregon! If you are looking to make a difference, this Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker position may be for you! We are seeking a Child Protective Services (CPS) (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our Child Welfare team in CORVALLIS, Oregon. Together, we can make a lasting impact! As an employee working within the Child Welfare Program , you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a 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.
Experience of protecting children from abuse and neglect withing their own families, foster care homes, other out of home care settings.
Experience in responding to assigned referrals regarding alleged child abuse or neglect when a field assessment is necessary.
Experience making determination if abuse/neglect has occurred and taken action per OSSM as appropriate
Experience in attending Court Hearings related to CPS Assessments Staff with DDA/AAG and/or Community Partners.
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
Please include detailed work and education history.
Please make sure your application materials, including your resume and job history.
Please confirm that you have an actual degree
Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Responsibilities

Safety & Wellbeing: You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
Engagement: You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.
Assessment and Interviews: Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm. You will also address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
Strategies: You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.
Decision-Making: Analyzing collected information, you will determine appropriate child placement, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
Communication: You will create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.