Social Service Specialist 1 - Child Protective Services Worker (CPS)

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

3d•Hybrid

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! Step into a transformative role where your passion for the well-being of children and your ability to connect with families come together to create lasting change. Become a catalyst for positive impact in the lives of Oregon’s children and their loved ones. Are you ready to unlock the potential within every family—and make a real difference? We are currently seeking two Social Service Specialist 1-Child Protective Services Workers (CPS) to join our team based at the Alberta office located in NE Portland. Summary of Duties 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 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, 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.

Nice To Haves

Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and impacted communities.
Experience in preparing detailed narrative documentation and individual client cases, including case activities, client interactions, and other pertinent observations.
Experience working with diverse populations.
Experience adopting trauma-informed practices that consider individual needs, safety, trust-building, and cultural sensitivity.
Experience in effective communication with individuals via telephone and face-to-face interactions.
Demonstrated proficiency in navigating technology, inputting, and retrieving data, and using various computer systems or databases.
Experience providing services and resources to children and families in social services settings.
Experience with case management which includes assessing individual needs, developing and implementing personalized action plans, monitoring progress, and collaborating with various service providers to ensure comprehensive support.

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.