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What is a CPS Investigator?

Child Protective Services investigators receive and investigate reports of alleged child abuse and neglect.  Basically, CPS investigators have the difficult tasks of figuring out what has happened and predicting what will happen.   Reports of alleged child abuse and neglect are received and investigated by Child Protective Services 24 hours per day.

The investigation includes conducting interviews and gathering information about the report in order to determine the degree of intervention necessary.  The investigator will assess risk and safety and may recommend services for the child and family, which will help reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect.  The purpose of conducting an investigation is to determine if a child can safely live with his or her family, whether abuse or neglect has occurred, whether other children in the family are also victims of abuse or neglect, whether there is a risk for future abuse or neglect, and to develop a plan, if needed, to keep the child safe.

Sounds good, but what kinds of things will I really be doing?

  • Responding quickly in crisis situations involving children in an abusive/neglectful situation. This may be in areas where dangerous situations may be encountered;
  • Investigating referrals/complaints relative to alleged child abuse and/or neglect and taking the necessary measures to protect children.  This could include removing a child from their family;
  • Interviewing individuals associated with a referral/complaint (for example: complainants, family members, doctors, nurses, and others familiar with the family and/or present situation);
  • Examining children for signs of abuse or neglect.  This may involve dealing with serious injuries.
  • Having discussions in a direct and objective manner with families related to income, money management, sex abuse, and personal relationships that they will probably consider personal and private;
  • Testifying in Court and preparing comprehensive reports of investigative findings that support recommendations for appropriate action;
  • Documenting all relevant and appropriate information obtained; and completing all required forms to ensure completeness of all documents and records;
  • Serving as liaison to social service agencies, schools, local law enforcement agencies, and attorneys regarding reports and investigation activities of child abuse and neglect cases;
  • Working under constant time pressure created by the nature and volume of the cases, requiring the ability to prioritize efforts and work flexible work hours;
  • Maintaining a balance of objectivity and empathic understanding in dealing with families living in stressful and crisis situations;
  • Other duties as assigned.

Do I have to have a degree?

Yes, to be a caseworker you must have a four-year bachelors degree. It doesn’t have to be specifically a social work or human services degree, but those are preferred. 

What would my salary be?

This position may be filled at any level from a CPS Specialist II to a CPS Specialist IV. The starting salary range is $2,644.08 to $2,970.91 per month and will be based on the qualifications of the selected applicant.

Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $5000 yearly stipend in addition to base salary. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an identified investigative position to continue to receive this additional pay.

I think I could do this job, but will I get specifically trained on what to do?

YES!  You will have lots of great training before beginning your job. Though you will be doing visits to clients on your own you will have ongoing support from your co-workers and supervisor any time you need it. 

Are there opportunities for career advancement?

YES!  You will receive ongoing training to prepare you for career progression. There are various levels of certification. For more information about certification go to http://www2.uta.edu/ssw/ccw/psti/fps.html

Condition of Employment

Must possess and maintain a valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator's License.  CPS will also request a Criminal Background Check and CPS History check on all applicants.