Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Initial posting date: 07/23/2026 • Application deadline: 08/09/2026

About the role

Every day, Child Protective Services workers step into moments that matter most. In this role you will ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's children, navigating difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support. If you’re seeking meaningful work that blends critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection, this work may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Responsibilities

• Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases, taking protective action when necessary.
• Create safety and service plans that reflect each family's needs and connect them with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.
• Prepare accurate case documentation, including reports, assessments, safety plans, and notes.
• Engage in child-safety meetings and work closely with families, community partners, law enforcement, health and mental health providers, educators, and other professional multidisciplinary teams.
• Testify in court hearings and initiate court action when needed.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• 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.

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

Skills

• Experience working independently and in a team to complete tasks and projects.
• Experience writing clear, complete, and concise documents with minimal errors.
• Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel to create, edit, and maintain documents or spreadsheets.
• Experience working with people from varied backgrounds using culturally responsive practices.
• Experience managing a workload with multiple competing priorities in a fast-paced environment, by using organization, time-management, and prioritization.
• Experience taking initiative to find answers by using guides and resources available, before seeking support.

Working Conditions

• Work in a fast-paced environment managing multiple competing priorities simultaneously.
• Work takes place in offices, participants' homes, and various community sites.
• Frequent travel is required for transporting children or families and conducting case-related activities.
• Interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress; there may be times when individuals have difficulties managing their emotional responses.
• Encounter unsafe and unsanitary home environments at times.
• Meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.
• Activities include traversing stairs, moving on uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.

Schedule

• Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• Occasional requirements for compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends.
• Rotating on-call schedule, including evening and weekend work.

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.

Pay

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

This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).