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

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker to join our team in Astoria. This role plays a crucial part in safeguarding children and fostering family resilience through culturally informed practices.

Responsibilities

• Respond to referrals, interviewing children, families and contacts.
• Observe home environments, conduct child safety assessments, and make determinations of abuse or neglect, taking protective action when necessary.
• Develop service plans to meet the needs of children and families.
• Arrange medical evaluations, placements, and connect families with services and resources.
• Create reports, safety plans, assessment evaluations, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations.

Requirements

• A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required.
• A bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree unrelated to human services with one year of relevant experience.
• Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, or an associate degree with two years of relevant experience and related training, coursework, or certification.

Essential Attributes

• Proficiency in writing detailed reports, including conclusions and recommended actions, with minimal spelling or grammar issues.
• Experience engaging with children and families under time-sensitive and challenging circumstances, to gather information and make informed decisions.
• Experience communicating complex information to families, colleagues, and community partners in a clear and concise manner.
• Experience managing time, staying organized and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
• Experience in crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and behavior management.
• Experience adopting trauma-informed practices that consider individual needs, safety, trust-building, and cultural sensitivity.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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.
• Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Or an associate degree and either:
• Two years of Human Services related experience.
• One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

Benefits

• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Awesome benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.