Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is hiring multiple Child Protective Services Workers in the Bend and Redmond offices. This role focuses on ensuring the safety and well-being of Oregon’s children by navigating difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support. The work blends critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection, offering meaningful opportunities to make a difference in children’s lives.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• A bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human services.
• 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.
• 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 suffice.
• The degree must be completed, not in progress.

Essential Attributes

• 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.

Working Conditions

• 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.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• Occasional compensated overtime may be required, including evenings and weekends.
• The employee may be on a rotating on-call schedule, including evening and weekend work.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress is possible.
• Activities include traversing stairs, moving on uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.