Adult Protective Service Specialist (Oregon State Government)

Salary Range: $4536 - $6952   

Medford (State Street office)

The salary range listed above is for non-PERS qualifying applicants. PERS qualifying applicants may be eligible for an adjusted range to reflect an additional 6.95%.

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 women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, racial/ethnic groups, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS!

In a role dedicated to safeguarding the most vulnerable members of our society, you will play a crucial part in assessing and addressing the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring their protection against abuse and neglect.

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. Whether investigation is required or not, 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 and may testify in court hearings.

Major duties include:

• 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.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position is assigned to our Medford Senior Service office; however, the successful candidate may be eligible for in state hybrid work.  Hybrid work consists of performing duties onsite in a standard office environment and working remotely. We value our employees and want to encourage work-life balance and flexibility.

May be subjected to verbal abuse and assaultive threats made by angry and hostile individuals. This is a flexible work schedule position 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.

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 Associate.

ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Experience working with law enforcement and community partners.

• Experience interviewing people to gather information related to abuse, neglect and/or self-neglect in hostile situations.

• Experience interpreting and explaining decisions, laws, rules, policies and procedures.

• Technical knowledge and experience of investigative practices, which includes experience interviewing reported victims of abuse with trauma informed techniques as well as advocating for alleged victims.   

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

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.

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

• 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’ 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 ADA.DHS@dhsoha.state.or.us for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Jennifer Moisa. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition (REQ) number listed at the top of this job post.

• Email: JENNIFER.M.MOISA@odhs.oregon.gov