Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Initial posting date: 08/19/2026 • Application deadline: 09/03/2026

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Child Protective Services Worker to ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's children. In this role, you will navigate difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support, blending critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection.

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 collaborate effectively with families, professionals, and community partners.
• 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 related field.
• Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field and one of the following:
  • One year of human services-related experience.
  • Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Or an associate degree and one of the following:
  • 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.

Note: 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 organizing work, managing time, and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
• 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 using sound judgment when making observations and asking focused questions to identify and determine child safety concerns and threats.

Working Conditions

• Work will take place in offices, participants’ homes, and various community locations.
• Frequent travel is required for transporting children or families and completing case-related activities.
• Standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• Occasional compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.
• Participation in a rotating on-call schedule that includes evening and weekend work.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress.
• Situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure safety.
• Activities may include traversing stairs, moving across uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.

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).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

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

Schedule

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