CPI Investigator Trainee — Child Protection in Action

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services; Plainview (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) seeks a Child Protective Investigations Specialist to conduct field investigations into alleged abuse and neglect, interview families, and assess risk to children.

The role requires navigating crisis situations, maintaining objectivity and empathy, working outside regular hours, and coordinating with law enforcement and community resources; a bachelor’s or relevant associate degree and valid Texas driver's license are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree with relevant work experience per screening criteria
• Degrees/credits may be substituted with equivalent experience as allowed
• Experience in social/human/protective services preferred
• Certification/eligibility not required at specialist I level but may apply for higher levels

Responsibilities

• Responds to crisis situations involving children
• Conducts forensic investigations to determine abuse/neglect
• Observes children for signs of harm
• Interviews families, caregivers, and others
• Assesses safety and protective actions
• Maintains case documentation and required forms
• Participates in on-call rotation after hours including weekends
• Develops relationships with law enforcement and community resources
• Promotes cultural diversity and workplace competency
• Attends training and staff meetings

Skills

Knowledge of child development

Knowledge of family dynamics

Verbal and written communication

Relationship building

Problem solving

Computer literacy

Travel for visits after 5pm

On-call / irregular hours

Work in stressful environments

Education

Bachelor's degree

Associate's degree + 2 years relevant work

60 credit hours + 2 years

90 credit hours + 1 year

Job description

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) seeks a Child Protective Investigations Specialist to conduct field investigations into alleged abuse and neglect, interview families, and assess risk to children.

The role requires navigating crisis situations, maintaining objectivity and empathy, working outside regular hours, and coordinating with law enforcement and community resources; a bachelor’s or relevant associate degree and valid Texas driver's license are required.