Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) McMinnville

Position Information Initial Posting Date: 06/15/2026 Application Deadline: 06/29/2026 Agency: Department of Human Services Salary Range: $4,954 - $7,592 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) McMinnville About the Role The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others. As a CPS Worker, you will engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers to ensure safety and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families. You will conduct child safety assessments through a culturally relevant and equity-informed lens. Responsibilities Protect children’s safety and support families by engaging with them, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma‑informed and antiracist approach. Navigate the needs of the child and the family while balancing legal requirements. Conduct assessment and fact‑finding interviews related to child safety, risk of abuse, neglect or harm, and address care and needs levels for children and families. Analyze collected information and determine appropriate child placement, considering each family’s unique circumstances. Create reports, case notes, testify in court, and communicate with diverse populations in office, community, or legal settings. Minimum Qualifications A bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field; OR A bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services AND either One (1) year of Human Services related experience; OR Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency; OR An associate degree AND either: Two (2) years of Human Services related experience; OR One (1) year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency. Essential Attributes Experience with crisis intervention and conflict resolution, applying trauma‑informed de‑escalation tactics and behavior management strategies while maintaining professionalism and fostering collaborative, peaceful resolutions. Experience with critical thinking and making rapid, sound decisions to navigate time‑sensitive or tense situations. Experience fostering psychological safety, well‑being, and belonging; promoting a culture of equity and inclusion that actively supports the ODHS mission. Experience communicating complex information to diverse audiences in both oral and written formats, adapting communication to varied learning and communication styles. Experience mentoring and engaging families to develop and implement successful strategies, connecting them to community and family supports. Experience handling confidential information with unwavering professionalism, holding self and others to high standards of honesty and integrity. Experience applying lessons‑learned to varying environments and situations; welcoming constructive feedback and suggestions to strengthen work performance. Working Conditions Work schedule Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm Pacific Time; hours may fluctuate based on service needs. Work conducted in offices, participants’ homes, and other community sites. Occasional remote workdays may be possible with manager approval. Occasional compensated overtime and after‑hours work, including evenings and weekends. On‑call rotating schedule, including evenings or weekends. Interaction with a wide range of people, including those who have experienced trauma. Role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma‑informed approach. May require quick decision‑making to ensure safety. Activities include traversing stairs, moving on uneven terrain, and helping children (weighing up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats. Background Checks and Requirements Selected finalists will undergo a criminal history and background check. Adverse history may lead to disqualification. Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint‑based check. US residents only; I‑9 and E‑Verify required upon hire. Benefits ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning. Cost of Living Adjustments. Annual salary increases (until reaching top of salary range). A comprehensive benefits package. Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Employment Preference Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers receive candidate preference if they meet the qualifications. General Information Permanent, full‑time position represented by SEIU. This recruitment may fill future vacancies in the same classification. Contact Information Recruiter: Alissa Walker Job Requisition Number: (include when contacting) Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io (call or text) #J-18808-Ljbffr Oregon Department of Human Services