Initial Posting Date: 09/03/2025Application Deadline: 09/10/2025Agency: Department of Human ServicesSalary Range: $4,833 - $7,407Position Type: EmployeePosition Title: Child Protective Services (Social Service Specialist 1)Job Description:The is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our and our vision for a positive that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.Opportunity awaits!Ready to turn your passion for safeguarding children and strengthening families into a rewarding career? Look no further! The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking compassionate individuals to join our team and help us create lasting, positive transformations in the lives of Oregon's most vulnerable children and families.Join our Gresham Child Welfare team as a Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) and be the bridge that connects families, understands their dynamics, and makes a lasting impact on those in need in Oregon! If you are looking to make a difference, this Child Protective Services Worker position may be for you!Summary of DutiesAs an employee working within the , you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.As a Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker, you will:Respond to referrals and determine whether child abuse or neglect has occurred.Gather information through interviews with parents and children.Observe and analyze the safety of home environments.Gather collateral information from school personnel, doctors, therapists, and law enforcement officers.Fulfill documentation requirements and enter info into databases.Arrange medical evaluations and substitute care placement for children.Present and testify in court.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. There are no exceptions or grace periods for finishing a degree.Minimum QualificationsA valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position. AndAn associate degree and either:Two years of Human Services related experience, orOne year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, orA bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service, orA bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services and either:One year of Human Services related experience, orCompletion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker CompetencyDegree must be completed, not in progress. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions. There are no exceptions or grace periods for finishing a degree.Essential AttributesWe are looking for candidates with:Experience identifying client needs and connecting them to relevant and culturally responsive services.Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.Experience communicating clearly with diverse groups in both verbal and written forms.Experience using various computer systems, including Microsoft 365 programs.Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlinesExperience with working both independently and as part of the team.Experience working with children and families through a trauma-informed lens.Attention all candidates!Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.Working ConditionsEmployee’s work schedule will be 40 hours per week, Monday thru Friday, 8am-5pm PT and may include weekend or evening hours; hours may fluctuate based on service needs.This position will be required to participate in an on-call rotation for mandatory on call for child protective services.Employee's work may be conducted in offices, participants’ homes, and other community sites.Occasional travel is required for meetings, trainings, and other case related activities.Address sensitive issues related to trauma, abuse, substance use, and crises.Engage with a diverse range of individuals, including those who have experienced trauma and may face challenges with emotional regulation.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.Background Checks and RequirementsIf selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification.The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.Benefitscommunities that promote shared learning.Cost of Living Adjustments.Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).Amazing .Possible eligibility for the .Employment PreferenceVeterans’ preference:.. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.General InformationThis is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%.This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.Contact InformationWe invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.The recruiter for this position is Yvette Medford. Please include the REQ# when corresponding.Email:Phone (call or text): 541-709-0306Come for a job. | Stay for a career. | Make a difference... for a lifetime!
