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Child Protection Services Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Applicant must have been in child welfare placement for two years or more above the age of 8 or had ... Protection of People with Special Needs. Prospective employees whose names appear on the SEL as ...

Applicant must have been in child welfare placement for two years or more above the age of 8 or had ... Protection of People with Special Needs. Prospective employees whose names appear on the SEL as ...

Showing results 41-60

Child Protection Services information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$51.3K

$69.6K

$86.8K

How much do child protection services jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for child protection services in Rochester, NY is $69,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $78,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Child Protection Services?

Child Protection Services (CPS) are government agencies responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of children who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. CPS investigates reports of suspected child maltreatment and works to protect children by providing family support services, arranging foster care, or, in severe cases, removing children from dangerous environments. The primary goal of CPS is to keep children safe while helping families address and resolve issues that may put children at risk.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Protection Services worker?

To thrive as a Child Protection Services worker, you need a background in social work or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and, in many cases, relevant state licensure. Familiarity with case management systems, risk assessment tools, and legal documentation processes is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to remain objective under stress help workers build trust and make sound decisions in sensitive situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children while navigating complex family dynamics and legal requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Child Protection Services, and how can these be managed?

Professionals in Child Protection Services often encounter emotional challenges, such as handling cases of abuse or neglect and navigating complex family dynamics. High caseloads and time-sensitive investigations can also contribute to stress and burnout. Effective management of these challenges includes strong support from supervisors, regular team debriefings, ongoing training, and access to mental health resources. Building resilience and establishing healthy work-life boundaries are also crucial for long-term success in this field.

What is the difference between Child Protection Services vs Social Worker?

AspectChild Protection ServicesSocial Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in social work or related field; licensure may be requiredRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in social work; licensure often necessary
Work EnvironmentChild welfare agencies, government offices, child advocacy settingsHospitals, schools, community organizations, government agencies
Employer & IndustryGovernment child welfare departments, non-profitsHealthcare, education, social services sectors
Common Search & ComparisonChild Protection Services vs Social Worker

Child Protection Services and Social Workers often work closely, but Child Protection Services specifically focus on investigating and managing child abuse and neglect cases. Social Workers have a broader role, providing support across various social issues, including child welfare, mental health, and community services. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their primary responsibilities and scope differ.

Can I be a child protection services worker?

Child Protection Services workers, also known as social workers or caseworkers, typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. They often require background checks, strong communication skills, and sometimes state licensure or certification to work in this field.

What degree do you need to work for a child protection services agency?

Child protection services agencies typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field for entry-level positions. Advanced roles or specialized positions may require a master's degree and relevant certifications, such as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).

What do I need to work with child protection services?

To work in child protection services, individuals typically need a relevant degree such as social work, psychology, or social services, along with experience in child welfare. Certification or licensure may be required depending on the role and jurisdiction, and strong communication, assessment, and crisis management skills are essential.
Infographic showing various Child Protection Services job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,637 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Peer Specialist Youth Services

New York State

Rochester, NY • On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist CMSO staff by engaging youth and families through support groups, connecting them to community resources, and empowering families to advocate for their needs.

  • Build supportive relationships with parents, support them in meetings and appointments, and provide advocacy for parents of youth placed with OCFS.

  • Participate in training, work closely with the Family Engagement Team and CMSO staff, and support family involvement in OCFS events and community programs.


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Under the direction of the Family Engagement Specialist, the DJJOY Peer Specialists will assist CMSO staff by engaging youth and families through a network of parent/caregiver support groups, connecting them to community based resources, and empowering families to advocate for their own needs. They will strengthen the families ability to utilize resources available to them and encourage positive relationships between youth and parent/caregiver. The incumbent will be responsible for performing the following duties: Build a supportive relationship with parents.

Assist Family Engagement Specialist in organizing and conducting monthly parent support groups/workshops. Support the parents of OCFS placed youth in meetings and appointments. Provide advocacy for parents of youth placed with OCFS.

Connect parents to larger empowerment movements to elevate their understanding of their role promoting families. Meet with parents on a regular basis through 1:1 engagements in the community and at scheduled meetings, at the discretion of the Family Engagement Specialist. Participate in mandated and elective training opportunities as prescribed by OCFS.

Work closely with OCFS Family Engagement Team and CMSO staff Help promote and support the active involvement of families in events or activities that occur at OCFS facilities and in community programs. Minimum Qualifications Two years of experience participating in self -help activities, peer support or advocacy programs, or similar organizations. Applicant must have been in child welfare placement for two years or more above the age of 8 or had juvenile justice placement or received homeless youth services in New York State or are a parent who has had a child involved in the juvenile justice system.

Additional Comments Telecommuting is available for this position, however, it is at the sole discretion of the assigned supervisor and the Office of Community Partnerships when a candidate may be considered. Telecommuting applications will be reviewed and approved on a case by case basis in accordance with the OCFS Telecommuting Pilot Program Policy. Background Investigation Requirements: 1) All prospective employees will be investigated through a Criminal Background Check (CBC), which includes State and federal Criminal History Record Checks.

All convictions must be reported; conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, or any falsified or omitted information on the prospective appointee's employment application, may bar appointment or result in removal after appointment. Each case will be determined on its own merits, consistent with the applicable provisions of State and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Prospective employees will be fingerprinted in order to obtain a record of their criminal history information, and may be required to pay any necessary fees.

2) All prospective employees will be screened against the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR). Prospective employees will be required to pay any necessary fees. 3) For Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth (DJJOY) prospective appointees will be checked against the Staff Exclusion List (SEL) maintained by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.

Prospective employees whose names appear on the SEL as having been found responsible for serious or repeated acts of abuse or neglect will be barred from appointment and may have their names removed from the eligible list(s) for the title(s) if applicable. The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is an equal opportunity employer. OCFS does not discriminate based upon age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, military or veteran status, sex, disability (including pregnancy-related conditions), predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status or status as a victim of domestic violence, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

We devote special attention to dismantling racial injustice and recognize that diversity in our workforce is critical to fulfilling our mission. We are committed to the diversity of our staff, and encourage applicants from marginalized communities to apply. In furtherance of Executive Order 31 and OCFS's mission to have a diverse workforce, all people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

All applicants must be dedicated to working in and sustaining an environment of inclusion that affirms and celebrates the backgrounds, learned and lived expertise, whole identities, and individual perspectives of our staff. Applicants of all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to self-identify during the application process. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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