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Child Protective Services Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Child Protective Services Case Aide, you will play a vital role in the support and reunification of families served by the Office of Child and Family Services - Child Welfare division. You will:

As a Child Protective Services Case Aide, you will play a vital role in the support and reunification of families served by the Office of Child and Family Services - Child Welfare division. You will:

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Child Protective Services information

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How much do child protective services jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for child protective services in the United States is $15.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Child Protective Services jobs typically do not pay $2000 a day; they are government social work roles with salaries based on experience and location. High-paying roles in social services are rare and usually involve executive or consulting positions, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. Most daily earnings at this level are found in specialized consulting, legal, or executive roles outside standard child protective services positions.

How much does CPS get paid?

Child Protective Services (CPS) caseworkers in Texas typically earn an annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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 a background check and obtaining specific certifications or licenses, such as a child welfare certification, depending on the jurisdiction.

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.
More about Child Protective Services jobs
What cities are hiring for Child Protective Services jobs? Cities with the most Child Protective Services job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Protective Services jobs? The most popular types of Child Protective Services jobs are:
What states have the most Child Protective Services jobs? States with the most job openings for Child Protective Services jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Child Protective Services jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Child Protective Services jobs are:
Infographic showing various Child Protective Services job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,724 per year, or $15.7 per hour.
CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE WORKER I-IV

CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE WORKER I-IV

State of New Hampshire

Nashua, NH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


State Of New Hampshire rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 50 rated states


Job description

State of New Hampshire Job Posting
Department of Health and Human Services
Division for Children, Youth, & Families
Southern (Nashua) District Office
CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE WORKER I-IV
Assessment & Family Services
Child Protective Service Worker I- $22.50-$30.02
Child Protective Service Worker II $25.40- $34.14
Child Protective Service Worker III $28.74-$38.85
Child Protective Service Worker IV $31.33-$42.60
*The certification level identified by the DHHS Human Resource Office is based upon the minimum qualifications. Upon consideration of the applicants relevant work experience, interview, and the Supplemental Job Description, the DCYF hiring manager will determine the level a candidate will be hired at.
*See total compensation information at the bottom of announcement.
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Health and Human Services, Division for Children, Youth, and Families has a full-time vacancy for Child Protective Service Worker I-IV.
SUMMARY:
Previewing the RJP is required in order to proceed with the hiring process. Please click on the link to view the realistic job preview. https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/news-events/multimedia#real-job
After viewing, please complete the required Disclosure Statement to submit with your application.
ASSESSMENT DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
Performs entry-level protective services casework in investigating and assessing reports of alleged abuse/neglect of children under RSA 169-C for NH Division for Children, Youth and Families and provide for the safety of children and the welfare of families while promoting the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Upholds the vision and mission of the agency through utilizing the Practice Model theories, beliefs and principles in daily practice.
As the level moves from I to IV, the complexity of the casework becomes more challenging, however the scope remains the same.
FAMILY SERVICES DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
Performs entry level protective services casework to coordinate, manage and administer services for children and families including, maintaining children in the home safely, strengthening families for reunification, providing permanency for children in care and working closely with various community agencies while promoting the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Upholds the vision and mission of the agency through utilizing the Practice Model theories, beliefs and principles in daily practice.
As the level moves from I to IV, the complexity of the casework becomes more challenging, however the scope remains the same.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience:
CPSW I Equivalent combination of 2.5 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in social work, professional case management, psychology, social psychology, sociology, human services, criminal justice, behavioral science, cultural anthropology, counseling, pastoral counseling, divinity, education, or a related field.
CPSW II Associate's degree and 2 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 4 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in social work, professional case management, psychology, social psychology, sociology, human services, criminal justice, behavioral science, cultural anthropology, counseling, pastoral counseling, divinity, education, or a related field.
CPSW III Bachelor's degree and 1.5 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 5.5 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in social work, professional case management, psychology, social psychology, sociology, human services, criminal justice, behavioral science, cultural anthropology, counseling, pastoral counseling, divinity, education, or related field.
CPSW IV Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience OR equivalent combination of 7 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education and experience must be in social work, professional case management, psychology, social psychology, sociology, human services, criminal justice, behavioral science, cultural anthropology, counseling, pastoral counseling, divinity, education, or related field
License/Certification: Valid driver's license or access to transportation
Other Requirements:
Must be available for non-traditional work hours to meet the needs of client families and children in their homes and other public locations.
Trainee Option: Not applicable
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience in human services or education field working with children and/or families.
AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: Must successfully complete the CPSW Academy within 12 months of hire
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
In-Band Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No Criteria:
Broad Group Level Advancement Available: ☒ Yes ☐ No
Criteria: 21102002BGA01 (CPSW to Level 3)
For promotion from the 21-1020 Social Workers-2 job title to the 21-1020 Social Workers-3 job title, and use of the "Child Protective Service Worker II" working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:
Must have successfully completed the CPSW Academy
Must receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion
Must receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the CPS Field Administrator
21102003BGA02 (CPSW to Level 4)
For promotion from the 21-1020 Social Workers-3 job title to the 21-1020 Social Workers-4 job title, and use of the "Child Protective Service Worker III" working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:
Must have successfully completed the CPSW Academy
Must receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion
Must receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the CPS Field Administrator
21102004BGA02 (CPSW to Level 5)
For promotion from the 21-1020 Social Workers-4 job title to the 21-1020 Social Workers-5 job title, and use of the "Child Protective Service Worker IV" working title, the eligibility requirements in Personnel Rule 303.08 Broad Group Level Advancement must be satisfied, as well as the following criteria:
Must have successfully completed the CPSW Academy and the formal mentoring program
Must receive a satisfactory performance evaluation and be free of discipline, pursuant to Personnel Rule 1003.01, for one (1) year immediately prior to promotion
Must be up to date with all case records
Must receive a performance-based recommendation from the Supervisor and approval from the CPS Field Administrator
DISCLAIMERS:
The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.
When applicable, the work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.
Responsibilities:
ASSESSMENT I-IV DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):
I-IV - Establishes and develops relationships with children and their families to assess and secure immediate safety of the child and prevent further abuse/neglect.
I-IV - Conducts basic interviews of the victim and perpetrator in the report within prescribed time frames according to the risk to the child and validity of the report. Evaluates the risk to the child to remain in the home and recommends course of action. Level I, basic interviews with supervisory direction. Level II, may conduct forensic interviews with supervisory direction. Level III, conducts forensic interviews with minimal supervisory direction. Level IV, conducts forensic interviews and demonstrates advanced skills in professional interviewing techniques.
I-IV - Works collaboratively with community agencies including law enforcement, school and medical personnel as it relates to the investigation, provision of services and in accordance with the current AG protocols.
I-IV - Makes reasonable efforts to maintain the child in the family by preparing a safety plan with the family to remedy the abusive/neglectful situation.
I-IV - Arranges for in-home services to families when it is determined the abuse or neglect allegations are founded and the child can remain safely in the home with agreement by the family that they will cooperate with a case plan. Documents evidence to substantiate reports of child abuse and neglect in order to support the court petition.
I-IV - Locates suitable alternative placement to meet specific child/children's needs and in conjunction with policy and practice guidelines and prepares the child and family for the child/children's placement. Facilitates placement and coordinates visitations with the family and transports children and client families to necessary appointments.
I-IV - Develops a case record and completes all required documentation which includes the safety plan, court reports and all necessary Bridges documentation of case related activities. Level I, works under the direction of and review by the supervisor. II, has supervisory oversight, III has minimal review by the supervisor and IV is independent of the supervisor.
I-III - Works under direct and close supervisor and receives regularly scheduled weekly supervision. Level II, May serve as a mentor for newly hired staff or supervise an intern. Level III, May serve as a mentor for newly hired staff or supervise a student intern. May provide supervision to other staff at the request of the supervisor.
IV - Demonstrates independent decision-making ability and in the absence of the supervisor may assume responsibility for administration of daily business operations. Also demonstrates and can articulate leadership skills and ability and is a positive influence to other employees. Receives regularly scheduled supervision at a minimum of every two weeks. Serves as a mentor and may supervise interns. Exercises authority over subordinate staff and provides supervision at the request of the supervisor
I-IV - Completes training requirements according to policy including individual training plan and 30 hours of in-service training annually after completion of Child Protective Service Worker (CPSW) Academy.
I-IV - May provide outside education and information sessions with various agencies in the community in collaboration with the DCYF Speakers Bureau.
FAMILY SERVICES I-IV DETAILED TASKS (AGENCY/POSITION-SPECIFIC):
I-IV - Possesses basic knowledge of the principles of case management in order to manage a caseload, prepares and develops Solution Based case plans in conjunction with the family to ensure that objectives and tasks are being achieved, that court orders are being complied with, when applicable, in accordance with State and Federal Statute. Level II possesses fundamental knowledge. Level III possesses advanced knowledge. Level IV possesses advanced knowledge and manages an increasingly complex caseload.
I-IV - Establishes and develops relationships with children and their families in home; arranges and provides services to prevent further abuse/neglect and to enable the child to remain safely in his/her home and maintains contact according to policy. Levels I&II are under the direction of the supervisor.
I-IV - Establishes and maintains relationships with children in placement and their families and arranges and provides services to enable children to return home, and makes other alternative permanent plans if appropriate under the direction of the supervisor. Maintains contact with these children and families according to policy including transporting children and families as necessary. As the Level increases there is less supervisory oversight.
I-IV - Develops, recommends, implements, monitors, and evaluates family treatment and case plans in collaboration with other community stakeholders. Also responds to crisis situations in regards to a variety of case management situations, under the guidance and direction of the supervisor. Level III, requires maintaining control in intense and controversial situations and able to independently prioritize work demands under minimal direction of the supervisor. Level IV requires that they also independently prioritize work demands.
I-IV - Completes all required documentation, including case plans, court reports and all necessary Bridges documentation of case related activities.
I-IV - Facilitates effective and timely permanency through concurrent planning that supports children, families and caregivers, and assures that connections are maintained and that children do not leave care without a viable permanent connection.
I-IV - Ensures that children and youth in placement obtain the preparation, resources and positive youth development they need to establish connections with caring adults and become healthy, self sufficient and successful adults.
I-III - Works under direct and close supervisor and receives regularly scheduled weekly supervision. Level II, May serve as a mentor for newly hired staff or supervise an intern. Level III, May serve as a mentor for newly hired staff or supervise a student intern. May provide supervision to other staff at the request of the supervisor.
IV - Demonstrates independent decision-making ability and in the absence of the supervisor. may assume r...

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