Adult Protective Service Specialist

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Job Description:

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that 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 filling two vacancies with this recruitment.

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS!  Do you want the opportunity to match the needs of people in the community with available federal, state and local programs or other resources to meet those needs?  Do you want to be part of a diverse workforce that collaborates and learns from each other to improve services that supports the elderly, people with disabilities and communities?  Then, we want to hear from you!

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

In this position you will, determine the need for intervention and the level of support needed in the protection of vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities. This position screens referrals, assesses the need for further investigation, and investigates alleged incidents of adult abuse or neglect when needed. At times, employees in this position develop and execute a plan designed to reduce the risk of abuse. They interview complainants, witnesses, reported victims and perpetrators, and review documentation to collect evidence. They determine the validity of the allegations; coordinate legal actions to protect victims; write case reports that include a finding and may testify in court hearings.

As an Adult Protective Services Specialist, you will:

• Investigates complaints of abuse or neglect as well as plans the scope and direction of the investigation. Interviews the alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and witnesses.

• Reviews documents and records such as medical or financial records. Constructs and organize evidence. Collects and analyzes physical and documentary evidence.

• Applies administrative statutes and administrative rules regarding abuse to investigative situations and determine a finding. Evaluates evidence and address issues that arise during the course of the investigation. Determines relevance, reliability, and credibility of gathered information and evidence.

• Decides when appropriate to refer to law enforcement personnel. Provides investigative information on criminal cases when needed. May be asked to testify in court, before grand juries, trials and hearings; gives sworn depositions.

• Writes investigative reports that include summary of evidence and witness statements, conclusions, and recommended action in accordance with DHS rules and policies. Inputs information into various databases and electronic systems.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in the human, social, behavioral or criminal sciences AND two years human service, law enforcement or investigative experience.

• Three years professional level experience related to the position may substitute for the bachelor's degree.

OR

• An associate degree in the human, social, behavioral or criminal sciences AND four years human service, law enforcement or investigative experience.

• Eighteen (18) months professional level experience related to the position may substitute for the Associates.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience taking initiative to complete tasks.

• Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.

• Experience writing documents or reports that include a conclusion and recommended action (examples: case plans, court reports, investigative reports).

• Experience identifying problems and solutions through a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach.

• Experience using critical thinking skills to make quick decisions.

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.

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

• 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.

Working Conditions:

May be subjected to verbal abuse and assaultive threats made by angry and hostile individuals. This position works out of the North Bend office with a normal workday of 8 hours. Must be able to drive to and meet individuals in their own homes, other community settings, nursing homes, hospitals, or other care settings. May require some out of town or overnight travel for training and cases. May involve driving in inclement conditions. Potential exposure to illness and disease through direct contact with clients. May be exposed to unsanitary conditions. Work closely with individuals who may have difficulty receiving, processing or verbalizing information necessary to make informed choices or decisions.

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.

Benefits

• Cost of Living Adjustments.

• Amazing benefits package.

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

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.

• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

Veterans’ preference:

• Veterans’ preference information.

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).  

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

Contact Information

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Bonnie Nyssen. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: bonnie.nyssen@odhs.oregon.gov