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Child Protective Services Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Program Director

Colton, CA · On-site

$109K/yr

Bachelor's degree in social sciences or related field plus 5 years' experience in child welfare administration or child protective services experience in child welfare administration, child ...

New

Monitor and coordinate investigations involving employee misconduct, fraud, compliance concerns, Special Incident Reports (SIRs), Child Protective Services (CPS), Adult Protective Services (APS), and ...

Public Safety Dispatcher I

Chino, CA · On-site

$65K - $79K/yr

Receives mutual aid requests from other emergency service providers such as law enforcement agencies, hospitals, Child Protective Service, and Adult Protective Services; dispatches and prioritizes ...

New

Receives mutual aid requests from other emergency service providers such as law enforcement agencies, hospitals, Child Protective Service, and Adult Protective Services; dispatches and prioritizes ...

New

Receives mutual aid requests from other emergency service providers such as law enforcement agencies, hospitals, Child Protective Service, and Adult Protective Services; dispatches and prioritizes ...

Public Safety Dispatcher II

Chino, CA · On-site

$74K - $90K/yr

Receives mutual aid requests from other emergency service providers such as law enforcement agencies, hospitals, Child Protective Service, and Adult Protective Services; dispatches and prioritizes ...

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Ontario, CA

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter. * Facilitates and participates in chart reviews and audits of behavioral health clinicians. * Attends and ...

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter. * Facilitates and participates in chart reviews and audits of behavioral health clinicians. * Attends and ...

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Child Protective Services information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

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How much do child protective services jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for child protective services in Riverside, CA is $16.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does CPS get paid per hour?

Child Protective Services (CPS) caseworkers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and agency funding. Salaries often increase with years of service and additional certifications, and the role may include benefits such as health insurance and paid leave.

Is it hard to become a CPS worker?

Becoming a Child Protective Services (CPS) worker typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree, such as social work or psychology, and completion of state-specific training or certification. The process can be competitive and involves background checks, interviews, and sometimes experience in social services or related fields.

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

AspectChild Protective ServicesSocial Worker
CredentialsVaries by state, often requires a degree in social work or related fieldTypically requires a degree in social work, counseling, or psychology; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentChild welfare agencies, often in office and field settings, focusing on child safetyHospitals, schools, community agencies, and government offices, with diverse client populations
Employer & IndustryGovernment child welfare agenciesPublic and private social service organizations, healthcare, education
Common Search/ComparisonChild Protective Services vs Social Worker

Child Protective Services (CPS) is a specific agency focused on investigating and responding to child abuse and neglect reports. Social Workers have broader roles, providing support, counseling, and advocacy across various settings. While CPS workers often work within government agencies and require similar credentials, social workers may work in multiple environments and handle a wider range of social issues.

What are Child Protective Services?

Child Protective Services (CPS) are government agencies responsible for investigating reports of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Their main goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of children by assessing situations, providing intervention services, and, when necessary, removing children from unsafe environments. CPS works closely with families, law enforcement, and community organizations to provide support and resources aimed at keeping children safe while also helping families resolve issues. The agency also plays a role in reunification efforts when it is safe and appropriate for children to return home.

What qualifications do you need to work for CPS?

Child Protective Services (CPS) workers typically need a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training in child welfare. Many states also require passing background checks and obtaining state licensure or certification. Strong communication, assessment skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Protective Services (CPS) worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Protective Services worker, you need a background in social work or a related human services field, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant state certification. Familiarity with case management software, documentation tools, and legal protocols is essential for effectively managing cases. Strong communication, empathy, resilience, and critical thinking are crucial soft skills for building trust and making sound decisions in high-stress situations. These skills are vital to ensuring child safety, conducting thorough investigations, and providing appropriate interventions for families in crisis.

What are some common challenges faced by Child Protective Services (CPS) workers, and how can they be managed?

CPS workers often encounter emotionally challenging situations, including working with families in crisis and making difficult decisions regarding child safety. Managing high caseloads and navigating complex legal and social systems can also be demanding. Support from supervisors, access to ongoing training, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams are key strategies for handling these challenges. Many agencies offer resources for stress management and peer support to help workers maintain their well-being and effectiveness.

How to start a career in child protection?

To start a career in child protection, individuals typically need a relevant bachelor's degree such as social work, psychology, or criminal justice. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level social work positions can be beneficial. Strong communication, empathy, and knowledge of child welfare laws are essential for success in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Child Protective Services jobs in Riverside, CA? For Child Protective Services jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Protective Services jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Child Protective Services jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Child Protective Services jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Child Protective Services job openings:
Infographic showing various Child Protective Services job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,140 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Program Director

MarSell Wellness Center

Colton, CA • On-site

$109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description


Job Title: Program Director

Department: Family Services

Location: Colton (San Bernardino)

Reports To: Regional Family Services Director

FLSA Status: Exempt

Remote Status: None

Salary: $109,000

Sign on Bonus (new hires only): $3,000


Position Summary:

The Program Director will plan, direct, or coordinate the work for specific marketing projects. Develop schedules and assign resources to ensure that the project meets its targets and goal.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the following satisfactorily; other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Plan, organize, and assign the work of staff and any technical experts and/or consultants.
  • Provide leadership in the development and implementation of recommended procedures and programs.
  • Ensure Marsell is sufficiently diverse in strengths and capabilities to plan and deliver appropriate services; ensure appropriate advocacy support; assist children and families to gain access to a full array of services; mediate barriers to services within the system; collaborate to redress for gaps in services.
  • Attend Board meetings and compose written, comprehensive reports for executive leadership and Board review.
  • Monitor compliance for all operations, including human resource laws and best practices, contractual fidelity, local and Federal laws, and regulations governing operations, and fiscal/auditory compliance.
  • Participate in the planning and implementation of the quality improvement processes.
  • Review all licensing and incident reports provided by the administrator and based upon such review; ensure that the agency and its certified family homes thereafter comply with all applicable regulations.
  • Hold regular staff meetings to discuss plans and policies.
  • Organize and carry out a program for staff development and arrange for attendance of staff at social work conferences and other meetings which assist in professional growth and effectiveness.
  • Provide leadership and stimulation in community planning for the children and their families.
  • Supervise any post placement services.

Assist with intake/placement when needed.

Travel to include transportation of children to parents/sponsor on rotation with other positions.

Perform other duties as requested by the assigned supervisor and or management.

Competencies:

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following.

Problem Solving- Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

Communications- Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.

Teamwork- Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goal and objectives; supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.

Planning/Organizing- Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plan.

Professionalism- Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.

Judgement- Displays willingness to make decisions; exhibits sound and accurate judgment; supports and explains reasoning for decisions; includes appropriate people in the decision-

making process; makes timely decisions.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.

5+ years’ experience in child welfare administration and/or child protective services

2+ years’ experience in program management, FFA Supervision or as the director of a licensed

childcare program.

Required:

 Must be at least 21 years of age.

Education/Experience:

Master of Social Work (MSW) or an equivalent degree in education, psychology, sociology, or other relevant behavioral science degree.

Bachelor's degree in social sciences or related field plus 5 years' experience in child welfare administration or child protective services

experience in child welfare administration, child protective services.

Language Ability:

Bilingual in Spanish requested but not required.

Read, analyze and interpret business, professional, technical or governmental documents. Write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, customers and the public.

Mathematical Ability:

Comprehend and apply principles of advanced calculus, algebra and advanced statistical theory.

Work with concepts such as limits, rings, quadratic and differential equations, and proofs of theorems.

Reasoning Ability:

Apply logical thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems. Deal with nonverbal symbolism (e.g., formulas and equations) in difficult phases. Deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.

Computer Skills:

Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

 Proficient in the use of standard office equipment.

Certificates and Licenses:

Possession of or the ability to secure the administrator’s license as required by the state.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Directly supervises employees in the department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Supervise, coaches, and mentors staff providing guidance to their work and learning including, when necessary, corrective/disciplinary action in a timely and professional manner.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Physical Demands:

The physical demand described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made

to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and move around for work. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.


Marsell Benefits:

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • 401 (k)

  • 401 (k) company matching

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Paid Holidays

  • Flexible Spending Account

  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)

  • Voluntary Life Insurance (Employee Paid)

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Employee Wellness Day(s)