Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Oregon Department of Human Services · Albany, OR · 3 wk ago

OTHRFull-time

Ready to turn your passion for safeguarding children and strengthening families into a rewarding career? The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking compassionate individuals to join our Albany Child Welfare team as Child Protective Services Workers. Be the bridge that connects families, understands their dynamics, and makes a lasting impact on those in need in Oregon.

About the Role

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 achieve the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation, supporting children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma, and achieve greater well-being.

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety and well-being of children while helping families achieve their goals.
Engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes.
Conduct assessments and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm, and address necessary care and needs of children and families.
Develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.
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.
Prioritize work related to child safety and respond quickly to emergent situations.

Requirements

Per ORS 419B.021, any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the following educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for these positions. Degree must be completed, not in progress.

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.

Essential Attributes

Experience conducting child interviews, parent interviews, and gathering/reviewing collateral information and documentation.
Experience making determinations if abuse/neglect has occurred and taking appropriate action.
Experience completing referrals for assessments as well as case notes.
Ability to prioritize work related to child safety and respond quickly to emergent situations.

A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.

Working Conditions

Work Locations: Offices, homes of participants, and community sites.
Travel: Occasional travel for meetings, trainings, and other case-related activities, including required occasional overnight travel.
Hours: Regular work week with fluctuating hours; occasional overtime may be needed, including evenings and weekends.
On-Call: Part of a rotating on-call schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
Physical Requirements: Frequent physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and assisting children with car seats.

This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach to ensure a safe environment. You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions. Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and others.

Background Checks and Requirements

If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship.
Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
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.

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.

This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Pay

Salary range: $4,954 - $7,592 per month.