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Child Protective Services Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by ourEquity North Starand our ...

As a Child Protective Services Caseworker, you will develop investigative and case management ... Chapter 10 of the Maine State Board of Social Worker Licensure regulations defines a field related ...

As a Child Protective Services Caseworker, you will develop investigative and case management ... Chapter 10 of the Maine State Board of Social Worker Licensure regulations defines a field related ...

As a Child Protective Services Caseworker, you will develop investigative and case management ... Chapter 10 of the Maine State Board of Social Worker Licensure regulations defines a field related ...

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Child Protective Services Worker information

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How much do child protective services worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for child protective services worker in the United States is $15.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.78 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a child protective services worker?

Child Protective Services (CPS) Workers are professionals who investigate reports of child abuse, neglect, or endangerment to ensure the safety and well-being of children. They assess family situations, determine if children are at risk, and work with families to provide services or interventions that promote a safe environment. CPS Workers may also coordinate with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and the courts when necessary. Their primary goal is to protect children while supporting families to address underlying issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child protective services worker?

To thrive as a Child Protective Services Worker, you need a solid background in social work or a related field, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and sometimes state certification. Familiarity with case management software, legal documentation systems, and mandatory reporting protocols is essential. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, resilience, and sound judgment are crucial soft skills for engaging with children and families facing crisis. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring child safety, making informed decisions, and providing effective support under challenging circumstances.

What are some common challenges child protective services workers face when working with families, and how can they effectively address them?

Child Protective Services Workers often encounter challenges such as resistance from families, emotionally charged situations, and complex cases involving multiple agencies. Building trust while maintaining professional boundaries is key, as is using trauma-informed communication to support children and families. Effective collaboration with law enforcement, medical professionals, and educators helps ensure the child's safety and well-being. Ongoing training and support from supervisors and colleagues are also crucial for managing stress and making informed decisions.

Can I work for Child Protective Services Worker without a degree?

Child Protective Services (CPS) workers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Some positions may accept relevant experience or certifications, but a degree is generally required for most CPS roles to ensure proper training and qualifications. Licensing or additional training may also be necessary depending on the jurisdiction.

How hard is it to become a child protective services worker?

Becoming a child protective services worker typically requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training. Candidates often need to pass background checks, complete agency-specific training, and obtain state licensure or certification, which can vary by location. The process can be competitive and demanding due to the sensitive nature of the work and the need for strong interpersonal skills.

How much do child protective services workers make?

Child Protective Services (CPS) workers typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and education level. Salaries can vary based on state or agency budgets, and additional certifications or specialized training may influence pay.

How to be a child protective services worker?

To become a child protective services worker, you typically need a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with relevant experience or internships. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the state or agency, and strong communication, assessment, and crisis management skills are essential for the role. Background checks are also standard due to the sensitive nature of the work.
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What states have the most Child Protective Services Worker jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Child Protective Services Worker jobs?

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Infographic showing various Child Protective Services Worker job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,231 per year, or $16 per hour.

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

On-site

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases, taking protective action when necessary.

  • Create safety and service plans that reflect each family's needs and connect them with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.

  • Engage in child safety meetings, collaborate with families, professionals, and community partners, and testify in court hearings or initiate court action when needed.


Oregon Youth Authority rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

08/27/2026

Application Deadline:

09/13/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

4954.00-7592.00

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Child Protective Services Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Job Description:

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by ourEquity North Starand our vision for a positiveRiSE organizational culturethat 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.

We are hiring multiple Child Protective Services Workers in the Bend and Redmond offices.

Opportunity awaits!

Every day, Child Protective Services workers step into moments that matter most. In this role you will ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's children, navigating difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support. If you're seeking meaningful work that blends critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection, this work may be exactly what you're looking for.

Summary of Duties

As a Child Protective Services Worker, you will:

  • Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases, taking protective action when necessary.

  • Create safety and service plans that reflect each family's needs and connect them with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.

  • Prepare accurate case documentation, including reports, assessments, safety plans, and notes.

  • Engage in child safety meetings and collaborate effectively with families, professionals, and community partners.

  • Testify in court hearings and initiate court action when needed.

Minimum Qualifications

A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

  • A bachelor's degree in human services or a field related to human service. Or

  • A bachelor's degree unrelated to Human Services and either:

    • One 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 years of Human Services related experience. Or

    • One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.

Pursuant toORS 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.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

  • Experience working independently and in a team to complete tasks and projects.

  • Experience organizing work, managing time, and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

  • Experience writing clear, complete, and concise documents with minimal errors.

  • Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel to create, edit, and maintain documents or spreadsheets.

  • Experience working with people from varied backgrounds using culturally responsive practices.

Working Conditions

  • Work will take place in offices, participants' homes, and various community sites.

  • Frequent travel is required for transporting children or families and conducting case-related activities.

  • The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.

  • There may be occasional requirements for compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends.

  • The employee may be on a rotating on-call schedule, including evening and weekend work.

  • You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses.

  • You may meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

  • Activities include traversing stairs, moving on uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.

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.

  • Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.

  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process. If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: 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.

Background Checks and Requirements

  • If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

  • 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.

Benefits

  • ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.

  • Cost of Living Adjustments.

  • Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).

  • Amazing benefits package.

  • Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference:

  • Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

General Information

  • These are permanent, full-time positions and are represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

  • This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or Job-specific questions.

Please include the job requisition number: REQ-205791.

  • Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado.

  • Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADO@odhs.oregon.gov

  • Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695.


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