CPS Specialist I: Safeguarding Families

Oregon Department of Human Services; Oregon; On-site; USD 59,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ODHS Employee Resource Groups

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Full benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Job summary

Oregon Department of Human Services seeks a Child Protective Services Worker to engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers to promote safety and optimal outcomes across communities. The role involves assessments, interviews, and cross‑functional collaboration to support families in crisis.

The position emphasizes equity, culturally relevant practice, and the ability to testify in court and document case notes.

Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position. Per pursuant to ORS 419B.021, states that 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.
• 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 1) One year of Human Services related experience; OR 2) Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency;
• An associate degree and either: 1) Two years of Human Services related experience; OR 2) One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

Responsibilities

• Safety & Wellbeing: You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
• Engagement: You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.
• Assessment and Interviews: Conduct assessment and fact-finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect, or harm. You will also address necessary care and needs levels of the children and families.
• Strategies: You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.
• Decision-Making: Analyzing collected information, you will determine child safety, considering each family’s unique circumstances.
• Communication: You will create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings.

Skills

Explain rules clearly

Ask clarifying questions

Assess needs

Work with diverse populations

Prioritize urgency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services

Bachelor's degree unrelated to Human Services with related experience or certificate

Associate degree with related experience or Oregon Caseworker Competency training

Job description

Oregon Department of Human Services seeks a Child Protective Services Worker to engage with children, families, resource parents and caregivers to promote safety and optimal outcomes across communities. The role involves assessments, interviews, and cross‑functional collaboration to support families in crisis.

The position emphasizes equity, culturally relevant practice, and the ability to testify in court and document case notes.