1

Child Protection Services Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CHILD PROTECTION SPECIALIST

Olney, IL · On-site

$6.4K - $9.3K/mo

Department of Children and Family Services Class Title: CHILD PROTECTION SPEC - 07163 Skill Option: None Bilingual Option: None Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $6,768 monthly; Full Range $6,460 ...

Be Seen First

Military Service * Social Work * Child Protective Services (CPS) * Child Welfare Programs * Investigative Services * Victim Advocacy * Community Safety Programs * Case Management Relevant experience ...

Be Seen First

Military Service * Social Work * Child Protective Services (CPS) * Child Welfare Programs * Investigative Services * Victim Advocacy * Community Safety Programs * Case Management Relevant experience ...

ALAMOSA COUNTY- Department of Human Services (DHS), Caseworker REPORTS TO : Program Manager - Child ... Knowledge of applicable privacy laws and statutes child protection issues and investigative ...

ALAMOSA COUNTY- Department of Human Services (DHS), Caseworker REPORTS TO : Program Manager - Child ... Knowledge of applicable privacy laws and statutes child protection issues and investigative ...

$24.84 - $40.72/hr

Assesses, plans and coordinates services for children suspected of being abused or neglected. Provides liaison and coordinates services with the child protective services, states attorney, law ...

Showing results 21-40

Child Protection Services information

See salary details

$52K

$70.6K

$88K

How much do child protection services jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for child protection services in the United States is $70,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $80,000.00 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.
More about Child Protection Services jobs

What cities are hiring for Child Protection Services jobs?

Cities with the most Child Protection Services job openings:

What states have the most Child Protection Services jobs?

States with the most job openings for Child Protection Services jobs include:

CHILD PROTECTION SPECIALIST

State of Illinois

Olney, IL • On-site

$6.4K - $9.3K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57887 
Opening Date:
08/12/2026
Closing Date:
08/26/2026
Agency:
Department of Children and Family Services
Class Title: 
CHILD PROTECTION SPEC - 07163 
Skill Option: 
None 
Bilingual Option: 
None
Salary:
Anticipated Starting Salary $6,768 monthly; Full Range $6,460 - $9,337 monthly
Job Type:
Salaried
Category: 
Full Time 
County:
Richland
Number of Vacancies:
2
Bargaining Unit Code:
RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Req: 
57887

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview
  • The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as  Child Protection Specialist.  DCFS offers a competitive compensation plan, excellent benefits, and a pension program.  The ideal candidate for this position will have excellent organizational skills and strong leadership and communication capabilities.  We invite you to join our innovative team to help make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families of Illinois.
Essential Functions
  • Serves as Child Protection Specialist
  • Prepares and maintains a variety of reports, assessments, and case documentation 
  • Selects, summarizes, and presents case material for transfer to permanency caseworker or intact/prevention caseworker
  • Determines the need for and coordinates the placement of children in substitute care facilities
  • Attends multi-disciplinary diagnostic and technical staff conferences to assess needed services
  • Transports clients when taking protective custody, when placing them in substitute care, and when changing placement location
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above
Minimum Qualifications
  • Preferably requires a master's degree in social work OR requires a master's degree in a related human service field, in criminal justice, criminal justice administration, or law enforcement and one year of directly related professional experience; OR requires a bachelor's degree in social work and one year of directly related professional experience; OR requires a bachelor's degree in a related human service field, in criminal justice, criminal justice administration, or law enforcement and two years of directly related professional experience.
  • The college or university issuing a bachelor's or master's degree must be accredited, and the degree program in social work must be approved by the Council on Social Work Education
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires travel, a valid driver's license, daily access to an automobile, and proof of vehicle insurance.
  • Requires ability to pass a background check.
  • Requires physical, visual, and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime, including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime.  This requires the ability to work evenings and  weekends.  This also requires the ability to work in a 24 hour "on call" capacity.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
About the Agency

DCFS is deeply committed to the welfare and protection of children. Our goal is to protect children by strengthening and supporting families. In every effort, from receiving hotline calls to reaching family reunification or foster care and adoption, children and families are our focus.

As a State of Illinois Employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:

  • A Pension Program
  • Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
  • 12 Paid Sick Days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
  • 10-25 Days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
    • Personal, Sick, & Vacation rates modified for 12-hour & part-time work schedules (as applicable)
  • 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
  • Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
  • 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
  • Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
  • GI Bill Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
  • 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
  • Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)

For more information about our benefits please follow this link: https://www2.illinois.gov/cms/benefits/Pages/default.aspx

Work Hours: M-F 8:30a to 5:00p
Headquarter Location: 1408 Martin St, Olney, Illinois, 62450
Work County: Richland

Posting Group: Social Services

This position DOES NOT contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Social media