CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee

Career Opportunities: CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee (17866) Posting ID 17866 – Posted • Dept of Family & Protectve Svc • CPS Investigations Region 7 • Protective Services • Not Eligible for Telework • $3000 - $4999 per month The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. Benefits 100% paid health insurance for you, 50% paid for eligible family members Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus 401(k) and 457 options Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave – time off you are paid for Optional dental, vision, and life insurance – at rates lower than most private plans Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings Employee discounts on gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment Functional Title: CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Alt Response Spec Trainee Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 7 Posting Number: 17866 Closing Date: 07/10/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Range: $3,816.65 – $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Shift: Day Additional Shift: None Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 85% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Job Location: BURNET, 1104 BUCHANAN DR STE 2 Brief Job Description Child Protective Investigations (CPI) investigate reports of child abuse and neglect 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Under the direction of a child placement supervisor, the position performs advanced social work related to protective services, intake, child abuse or neglect, assessment, Alternative Response, foster care, and adoptions. The role involves determining appropriate actions to resolve family stress situations, interacting with DFPS staff, clients, and community resources, and maintaining documentation in the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System. Essential Job Functions (EJFs) Determine causes/factors of abuse or neglect and assess current or future risk, gathering information from parents, family members, and others; interviewing and examining children; assessing home environment; gathering pertinent information from other sources. Collaborate with families to determine strengths, needs, and actions to reduce an immediate threat to child safety, including referrals for crisis intervention therapy or other community resources, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, and placing children in substitute care. Enter contact, documentation information, and narratives into the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System within required agency time frames. Develop and maintain effective working relationships between families, Child Protective Services staff, law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources. Attend and participate in training, meetings, and staffing sessions. Perform other duties as assigned to maintain unit operations. Promote and demonstrate respect for cultural diversity among families, coworkers, and all work-related contacts. Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge of child development. Knowledge of family dynamics. Knowledge of community resources. Knowledge of extensive engagement strategies. Knowledge of Child Protective Services policy and procedures. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. Skill in effective verbal and written communication. Ability to operate a personal computer. Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Ability to work with other professionals in the community. Qualifications Initial Screening Criteria Accredited Bachelor’s degree OR accredited associate’s degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant experience include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or at-risk populations. Preferred Criteria Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation. Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I to IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase after 120 days of tenure. The increase is granted at the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. The role is performed in a mobile unit, relying heavily on mobile technology such as a tablet. Employees will be required to use a personal motor vehicle; reliable transportation and a valid Texas driver’s license with acceptable driving record are required. Physical requirements: ability to stand, hear, talk, occasionally climb; lift up to 20 pounds, frequently 10 pounds or less; see objects clearly at 20 inches or more. Travel: Approximately 60% of the time, including occasional overnight travel. Travel outside assigned counties may be required with little notice. Background check and driver’s record check are required. State of Texas employees must comply with security and cybersecurity policies and with accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508) for information resources. DFPS is an E-Verify participant. Applicants must bring valid I-9 documentation on the first day of work. Disability accommodations are available during the hiring process. Contact information for assistance is provided by DFPS Employee Service Center. Employment Status Regular, nonexempt state employee – full time, day shift. #J-18808-Ljbffr FALL CREEK FARM & NURSERY