Child Protective Services (Social Services Specialist 1) Bilingual Required (English & Chinese/Mandarin)

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a bilingual Social Services Specialist 1 to join the Child Welfare Program. This position requires a deep commitment to supporting the well-being of children and families, particularly those facing challenges.

Responsibilities

• Respond to referrals of alleged child abuse/neglect
• Conduct child and parent interviews
• Gather and review collateral information
• Document observations of the home environment
• Determine if abuse or neglect has occurred and take children into protection when necessary
• Create and implement service plans for individual client needs

Requirements

• Bilingual in Chinese Mandarin and English
• A bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services with one year of Human Services related experience
• Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, or an Associate Degree with two years of Human Services related experience
• A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record

Qualifications

• Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and impacted communities
• Experience prioritizing work while managing competing priorities and deadlines
• Experience engaging with children and families under time-sensitive and challenging circumstances, gathering information, and making informed decisions
• Experience writing reports, such as case plans, court reports, and investigative reports that include conclusions and recommended actions
• Experience defining and explaining complex rules and guidelines in various settings
• Experience inputting and retrieving data efficiently and effectively

Skills

We value candidates who can demonstrate experience in:

• Building collaborative relationships
• Prioritizing work under pressure
• Engaging with children and families in challenging situations
• Writing clear and concise reports
• Defining and explaining complex rules and guidelines
• Efficiently inputting and retrieving data

Benefits

• Annual salary increases until reaching the top of the listed salary range
• Cost of Living Adjustments
• Amazing benefits package
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Pay

$4,954 - $7,592 per year

Schedule

Regular work week with fluctuating hours; occasional overtime may be needed, including evenings and weekends. Occasional overnight travel may be required.

Physical Requirements

Frequent physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and assisting children with car seats.

On-Call

You'll be part of a rotating on-call schedule that includes evenings and weekends.

Working Conditions

Work locations include offices, homes of participants, and community sites. Hours vary, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Attention All Candidates

A cover letter is required. It should clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Please include detailed work and education history. A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Contact Information

If you have questions or need accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions, or job-specific questions, please contact the recruiter, Tammie Moore, via email at Tammie.L.Moore@odhs.oregon.gov or phone at 971-201-0580.