Texas Internships - 79 jobs

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Investigator I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 4 Posting Number: 12622 Closing Date: 03/10/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: TEXARKANA Job Location Address: 3103 SUMMERHILL RD Other Locations: Atlanta; Linden; Texarkana MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen. It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing! We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. JOB SUMMARY: The Texas Rangers are seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to join their photography department. As a Photography Intern, you will provide comprehensive support to the department, including archival organization, photo requests, and the execution of on and off-field events. You will serve as the primary lead for archival organization, both internally and externally, and assist with editing tasks when required. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF POSITION INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: Collaborate with the photography team to fulfill game day needs, including pregame and in-game entertainment, capturing wide shots of Globe Life Field, fan photos, and game action as necessary. Perform live editing during games to quickly produce high-quality photos for immediate use. Assist in captioning photos for the Texas Rangers' archive, ensuring accurate and descriptive information is provided for future reference. Participate in photographing and editing events, as well as fulfilling other visual content requirements for Rangers marketing, partnerships, Rangers Youth Academy/Foundation, and other relevant stakeholders. Support the team in fulfilling internal and external photo requests, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of requested materials. Collaborate on studio shoots, aiding in setting up equipment, lighting, and capturing high-quality images. Retrieve and select photos for the Rangers Program, showcasing the team's highlights and achievements. Perform other duties as assigned by the Photography Coordinator, adapting to evolving needs and priorities. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: A minimum of 2 years of photography experience, preferably within professional or college sports organizations, or equivalent experience gained through relevant college courses. Proficiency in shooting action photography at professional, amateur, or college level baseball games, capturing the intensity and key moments of the sport. Strong skills in using Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, to edit and enhance photos. Familiarity with Photo Mechanic Plus and the ability to write general metadata to ensure proper organization and retrieval of image files. Experience working with Box and PhotoShelter, utilizing their functionalities for efficient file management and sharing. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, allowing for effective collaboration with team members, stakeholders, and clients. Physical capability to lift up to 35 pounds, as some equipment and props may require transportation. Flexibility to work during nights, weekends, and holidays, as sports events often take place during these periods. Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including both indoor and outdoor settings, and withstand extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, and rain. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the job. If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Pay Range: $18.00/hr. The City of Fort Worth is one of the fastest growing large cities in the U.S. Our employees serve the needs of over 1,000,000 residents, promoting our values of exceptional customer experience, mutual respect, embracing our diversity, continuous improvement, ethical behavior, and accountability. The City of Fort Worth Water Department is seeking a motivated Civil Engineering Intern to join our team to help with Capital Improvement projects. Our department ensures safe, reliable water and wastewater services for our community. We plan, design, and maintain infrastructure that supports growth and sustainability for one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. We are looking for an intern from February 2026 to December/January of 2027. This is a part-time position working up to 19 hours a week. Minimum Qualifications: * Enrollment in an accredited college or university with major coursework in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related field Preferred Qualifications: * Ability to read, interpret, and synthesize complex engineering reports and plans * Proficiency in collecting, organizing, analyzing, and interpreting technical data * Coursework or experience with GIS, AutoCAD, or similar technical software * Familiarity with water and wastewater infrastructure concepts through class projects, internships, or related experience The Capital Improvement Intern job responsibilities include: * Assist with the review of Water and Wastewater Master Plans * Prepare and update Project Information Forms (PIFs) with clear, concise technical documentation * Support data analysis by collecting, organizing, and interpreting information from various sources * Participate in the scoping and initiation phases of projects, including defining project needs, scope, and justification * Collaborate with internal departments and stakeholders to gather necessary data and resolve inconsistencies * Contribute to the development of project documentation and reports * Support problem-solving and risk mitigation by identifying information gaps and working to address them * Promote the use of technology to streamline processes and enhance efficiency Why This Internship Rocks: * Real-world experience on impactful projects that serve nearly 1 million residents * Exposure to engineering design, planning, and data analysis * Work alongside experienced professionals who value innovation and collaboration * Build skills that will set you apart in your career Apply Now! Turn Classroom Knowledge into Real-World Solutions Conditions of Employment The City of Fort Worth is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. It is the policy and practice of the City to recruit, hire, train and promote a diverse workforce without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or another non-merit factor. The City of Fort Worth is committed to full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the job application or interview process and to perform essential job functions. Candidates who do not meet the Education requirement, may be considered if they have more relevant work experience than the position requires. Those selected for employment will be required to pass Pre-Employment checks depending on the position requirements. Those could include, but are not limited to: criminal background check, drug screen, education verification, etc. criminal convictions will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Employees are paid by direct deposit only.

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage. Functional Title: CFO Business Support Internship Job Title: Research Specialist I Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: HHSC CFO Posting Number: 12569 Closing Date: 02/08/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Business and Financial Operations Salary Group: TEXAS-B-16 Salary Range: $1,720.00 - $1,800.00 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 5% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Part time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0231,0531,4505,4591,8051,8825,8850,15AX,35F,38A,49A,683X,783X,CYB14,IS,ISS,OSS Brief : Are you looking for a paid summer internship? Thinking about a career in government? Do you want to learn about the legislative and state budget process? Are you looking for experience in workforce development, data analysis, or process improvement? In your role as a CFO Strategic Support intern, you'll gain experience in a variety of subjects, work with experts, and be exposed to a variety of potential career paths. This internship will supply challenging work, and you will make a real contribution. This paid internship is part-time, (20 hours a week) Monday through Friday excluding agency holidays. Please note that this position is a temporary position classified as an internship for 2025 Spring Semester. This position has the potential for course credit. Part-time hours will be negotiated with the selected applicant. A hybrid remote and in-office schedule is available. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): Helps prepare division cross-departmental summary reports and report distribution. 25% Researches and answers team questions. 20% Analyzes workforce data for trends, research best practice solutions, writes and presents proposals. 5% Works with a team to create training material for the financial division. May be responsible for training presentations, break-out sessions, or other meeting facilitation. 10% Organizes and maintains folders stored on the agency network or in SharePoint. 10% Works with other departments in the division such as Provider Finance, Accounting, Budget and others with workforce-related issues. 10% Helps with division applicant screening and interview scheduling. Provide input on improving the internship experience with the agency. 10% Learns about the fiscal impact analysis of new proposed agency rules. 5% Assists with entering and tracking state program performance measures. 5% Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule following agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of research techniques. Knowledge of procedures for effective documentation. Skill in the use of Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook required; Microsoft PowerPoint preferred. Ability to document, follow and teach administrative procedures. Ability to interpret rules and regulations. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: None Initial Screening Criteria: Graduation from high school or equivalent, with preference given to completion of 60 college credit hours and coursework in business, public administration, or health or social policy. One year's experience with MS Excel, Word, and Outlook. Experience may be gained through work or academics. Additional Information Hours scheduled will not exceed 20 hours per week but 20 hours a week is required for this position. Work schedules will be determined as needed to accommodate class schedules. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. ADA Accommodations: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview. Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility: Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks. HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form Telework Disclaimer: This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: CPS Conservatorship Worker- DFPS Interns Only Job Title: CPS CVS Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: Region 7 CPS Dir Del - CVS Posting Number: 9328 Closing Date: 03/18/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 1340 AIRPORT COMMERCE DR BLDG 5, STE 525 Other Locations: Austin; Alice; Angleton; Aransas Pass; Bastrop; Bay City; Beeville; Bellville; Brenham; Brownsville; Bryan; Burnet; Cameron; Centerville; Conroe; Copperas Cove; Corpus Christi; Crosby; Edinburg; El Paso; Fort Stockton; Galveston; Georgetown; Giddings; Hamilton; Harlingen; Hillsboro; Houston; Huntsville; Killeen; Kingsville; Lamesa; Lampasas; Laredo; Liberty; Lockhart; Mexia; Midland; Odessa; Pearland; Raymondville; Rio Grande City; Rosenberg; Round Rock; San Angelo; San Antonio; San Marcos; Sinton; Temple; Texas City; Waco; Wharton MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for current DFPS interns only. Brief : Whenever a child must be removed from their home, Texas courts appoint Child Protective Services (CPS) to serve as a "Conservator" of the child. Conservatorship Specialists are a specific type of caseworker legally responsible for a child's welfare whenever they are removed from their home and monitors children's care while in CPS conservatorship. They work closely with parents, extended family, and legal parties to help children find a permanent, safe place to live. Newly hired employees holding a Master's Degree in Social Worker may qualify for an increase at the point of hire. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what CPS Conservatorship Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success, and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Receives cases from investigators after children are removed from their homes, placed in CPS conservatorship, and placed in care outside their homes. * Determines each child's needs and ensuring that appropriate referrals for testing, evaluations, records, or further assessments are made. Ensures all services are focused on achieving positive permanency. * Working with children, families, and communities to plan for a child's permanency. * Identifying potential permanency resources for the child through ongoing contact with parents, family members, and other individuals the child and family identify as important to them. * Searching for potential kinship providers throughout the case. Completing home studies of a child's family members or family friends (kinship providers) who might care for the child. * Meets with the parents to assess risk and safety issues, identify behavior changes necessary to achieve child safety, referring parents to appropriate services to address the identified needs to move towards positive permanency. Discusses with parents their progress towards making changes to behaviors that pose dangers to their child(ren). * Meets with children, parents, family friends, or foster homes in public as well as in their own homes. * Collaborates with a Placement Team, including Kinship staff, for placements, as needed. * Participates in meetings and conferences at times and places convenient for the family members as well as everyone involved in the case. * Visits children monthly to assess the child's feeling of safety in their current home, to plan for permanency, and to discuss their needs, wishes, and progress while in care * Attends and participates in court hearings about the child and family. This includes contacting the parties in the case before hearings, preparing court reports, and testifying in court on the child's needs, the family's progress, and the department's efforts to achieve permanency for the child. * Keeps the child's, parents, caregivers, court-appointed attorney and guardian ad litem(s) informed about the child's circumstances and significant events. * Works with the department's attorney to prepare for contested-court hearings and trials. * Works with kinship caregivers and foster parents to ensure that they have what they need to care for the child or youth placed with them i.e., keeping them informed about developments in the case, returning phone calls, and in some areas of the state being available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week at certain times. * Transitions children home during reunification services and provides support to the family until the legal case is closed. * Supervises adoptive placements until the adoption is final or until the case is transferred to an adoption caseworker. * Using effective time-management skills to make sure all key tasks are done. * Documents case records by completing forms, narratives, and reports to form a written record for each client. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships between Child Protective Services staff and law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers, clients, and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer. * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm. * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours. * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle, and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II or Child Protective Investigations Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II or Child Protective Investigations Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III or Child Protective Investigations Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III or Child Protective Investigations Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV or Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV or Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: Community-Based Care (CBC) is a new way to provide services than traditional foster care because it gives local communities the flexibility to draw on local strengths and resources and find innovative ways to meet the unique and individual needs of children and their families. CBC includes many of the services that Child Protective Services (CPS) normally provides. This includes foster care, case management, kinship, and reunification services. A single contractor in each designated community area creates a network of services, foster homes, and other living arrangements and, when ready, provides case management for each child and their family as well. CPS works with each contractor (Single Source Continuum Contractor or SSCC) to carefully manage the transition from traditional foster care to community-driven care. Full implementation of CBC is projected for the year 2029 across the state of Texas. With open proposal options, any given community or regional area may be selected for CBC transition. This position along with your job duties and function will shift form a state position with Texas Department of Family Protective Services to the SSCC, which is a private and non-profit agency serving the same foster care population. After the transition, your office location is subject to change within your same county which is expected to occur before 2029. To learn more about CBC, please visit Community-Based Care. This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker I to a Child Protective Services Conservatorship Worker IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants considered for placement in this position will be required to pass a drug screening. At the point of offer, candidates will be referred to a testing site. Note that it is important to maintain current contact information in the event you are referred for testing. A final offer of employment will not be extended until the agency receives confirmation of successful test results. During the 83rd Legislature (2013), the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill (SB) 427 which requires prospective and current child placing agency (CPA) employees to complete a Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) fingerprint check. Child Protective Services functions as a CPA therefore a fingerprint check will be required for each Conservatorship (CVS) and Foster/Adoption home (FAD) direct delivery staff or applicant being considered for employment. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: APS Investigator Specialist- DFPS Interns Only Job Title: APS INV Specialist I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: Region 1 APS In-Home Dir Del Posting Number: 9284 Closing Date: 03/17/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AMARILLO Job Location Address: 3521 SW 15TH AVE Other Locations: Abilene; Alamo; Alice; Alpine; Alvin; Amarillo; Anahuac; Andrews; Angleton; Anson; Aransas Pass; Archer City; Arlington; Athens; Atlanta; Austin; Bacliff; Ballinger; Bandera; Bastrop; Bay City; Baytown; Beaumont; Bedford; Beeville; Bellville; Big Spring; Boerne; Bonham; Borger; Bowie; Brady; Breckenridge; Brenham; Brownfield; Brownsville; Brownwood; Bryan; Burnet; Caldwell; Cameron; Canton; Canutillo; Carlsbad; Carrizo Springs; Carrollton; Carthage; Center; Centerville; Childress; Clarksville; Cleburne; Cleveland; Coldspring; Columbus; Conroe; Copperas Cove; Corpus Christi; Corsicana; Crockett; Crosby; Crystal City; Cuero; Cypress; Daingerfield; Dallas; Decatur; Del Rio; Denton; Dickinson; Dumas; Duncanville; Eagle Pass; Eastland; Edinburg; El Paso; Elgin; Elsa; Ennis; Fabens; Falfurrias; Floresville; Fort Stockton; Fort Worth; Fredericksburg; Gainesville; Galveston; Garland; Gatesville; Georgetown; Giddings; Gilmer; Goliad; Gonzales; Graham; Granbury; Grand Prairie; Grapevine; Greenville; Hallettsville; Hamilton; Harlingen; Haskell; Hearne; Hemphill; Hempstead; Henderson; Hereford; Hillsboro; Hondo; Houston; Humble; Huntsville; Hurst; Irving; Jacksonville; Jasper; Johnson City; Jourdanton; Karnes City; Katy; Kaufman; Kerrville; Killeen; Kingsville; Kingwood; Kirbyville; La Grange; Lake Jackson; Lake Worth; Lamesa; Lampasas; Lancaster; Laredo; Levelland; Lewisville; Liberty; Linden; Littlefield; Livingston; Llano; Lockhart; Longview; Lubbock; Lufkin; Lumberton; Madisonville; Marble Falls; Marfa; Marlin; Marshall; Mcallen; Mckinney; Mercedes; Meridian; Mesquite; Mexia; Midland; Mineola; Mineral Wells; Mission; Monahans; Mount Pleasant; Mount Vernon; Nacogdoches; Navasota; New Boston; New Braunfels; Odessa; Orange; Palestine; Pampa; Paris; Pasadena; Pearland; Pearsall; Pecos; Perryton; Pharr; Pittsburg; Plainview; Plano; Pollok; Port Arthur; Port Lavaca; Presidio; Quitman; Raymondville; Refugio; Richardson; Richmond; Rio Grande City; Robstown; Rockwall; Rosenberg; Round Rock; Rowlett; Rusk; San Angelo; San Antonio; San Benito; San Juan; San Marcos; San Saba; Schertz; Seguin; Seminole; Seymour; Sherman; Silsbee; Sinton; Snyder; Socorro; Sonora; South Houston; Stephenville; Sugar Land; Sulphur Springs; Sweetwater; Taylor; Temple; Terrell; Texarkana; Texas City; The Woodlands; Tomball; Trinity; Tyler; Uvalde; Van Horn; Vernon; Victoria; Waco; Washington; Watauga; Waxahachie; Weatherford; Webster; Weslaco; Wharton; Wichita Falls; Woodville; Zapata MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for current DFPS interns only. Brief : An APS Investigator Specialist protects the elderly and adults with disabilities who are unable to protect themselves. An APS Investigator Specialist has a very challenging job that can be stressful at times -but there are few occupations that offer more opportunities to learn new things about families, your community and yourself. Newly hired employees holding a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Social Work also qualify for an automatic starting salary increase of 3.4% or 6.8%, respectively. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Adult Protective Services Investigators do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Investigates reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation of elderly or disabled adults to assess the urgency of the problem by interviewing clients, family members and other to gather social, functional, physical and mental- emotional information for evaluation. * Provides services after normal working hours and on weekends to maintain 24 hour coverage, including receiving reports of alleged abuse, neglect or exploitation. * Determines temporary or long-term action to be taken to remove or lessen an immediate threat to the life or health of an adult protective services client to include counseling clients and caregivers, providing information and referral services, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, finding alternate housing when necessary, and providing on-going services. * Develops individualized service plans to meet the needs of the adult protective services client and maintains detailed documentation on each case. * Makes presentations and participates in community awareness and related activities to inform the public about the program. * Prepares routine, statistical, and special reports for management. * Serves in lead capacity in absence of supervisor. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of agency policies, procedures, and standards. * Knowledge of Texas laws relating to adult protective services. * Knowledge of gerontology and the dynamics of the aging process. * Knowledge of special problems of the aged and disabled. * Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and skills. * Knowledge of differing cultures/ethnic groups and values. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Ability to work effectively with difficult abuse/neglect complaints. * Ability to empathize and provide encouragement to disabled adults and the elderly and to help them meet particular needs and alleviate problems. * Ability to operate a personal computer and various software packages. * Ability to operate standard office equipment including fax and copy machines. * Ability to make home visits in isolated or high crime areas that may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions. * Ability to be on call in order to receive reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. * Ability to work with violent and dangerous individuals. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist Certification OR currently employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist Certification OR currently employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as an Adult Protective Services Investigator Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from an APS Specialist I to APS Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary; however, the starting salary for this position may not exceed the maximum of the pay group. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear, and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. The APS Professional Education Program reimburses eligible staff for the cost of tuition and fees up to $10,500 per fiscal year. An applicant must be an APS employee and must have one year of full-time continuous APS employment before the date of the application is due. To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program that is relevant to APS work and any position within APS can apply. Business-related travel is reimbursed at the state-approved mileage rate and according to DFPS policy. APS Investigator Specialists are mobile caseworkers. Mobile casework is not the same as working from home. APS Investigator Specialists spend the majority of their workday "in the field" conducting home visits to interview clients and alleged perpetrators. Although each workday may begin and end at home, APS Investigator Specialists are expected to be in the field making visits and engaging the community every day. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: CPS Family Based Safety Services Worker- DFPS Interns Only Job Title: CPS FBSS Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: Region 6A CPS Dir Del - IFBSS Posting Number: 9325 Closing Date: 03/18/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: HOUSTON Job Location Address: 2500 BOLSOVER ST Other Locations: Abilene; Alamo; Alice; Alpine; Alvin; Amarillo; Anahuac; Andrews; Angleton; Anson; Aransas Pass; Archer City; Arlington; Athens; Atlanta; Austin; Bacliff; Ballinger; Bandera; Bastrop; Bay City; Baytown; Beaumont; Bedford; Beeville; Bellville; Big Spring; Boerne; Bonham; Borger; Bowie; Brady; Breckenridge; Brenham; Brownfield; Brownsville; Brownwood; Bryan; Burnet; Caldwell; Cameron; Canton; Canutillo; Carlsbad; Carrizo Springs; Carrollton; Carthage; Center; Centerville; Childress; Clarksville; Cleburne; Cleveland; Coldspring; Columbus; Conroe; Copperas Cove; Corpus Christi; Corsicana; Crockett; Crosby; Crystal City; Cuero; Cypress; Daingerfield; Dallas; Decatur; Del Rio; Denton; Dickinson; Dumas; Duncanville; Eagle Pass; Eastland; Edinburg; El Paso; Elgin; Elsa; Ennis; Fabens; Falfurrias; Floresville; Fort Stockton; Fort Worth; Fredericksburg; Gainesville; Galveston; Garland; Gatesville; Georgetown; Giddings; Gilmer; Goliad; Gonzales; Graham; Granbury; Grand Prairie; Grapevine; Greenville; Hallettsville; Hamilton; Harlingen; Haskell; Hearne; Hemphill; Hempstead; Henderson; Hereford; Hillsboro; Hondo; Houston; Humble; Huntsville; Hurst; Irving; Jacksonville; Jasper; Johnson City; Jourdanton; Karnes City; Katy; Kaufman; Kerrville; Killeen; Kingsville; Kingwood; Kirbyville; La Grange; Lake Jackson; Lake Worth; Lamesa; Lampasas; Lancaster; Laredo; Levelland; Lewisville; Liberty; Linden; Littlefield; Livingston; Llano; Lockhart; Longview; Lubbock; Lufkin; Lumberton; Madisonville; Marble Falls; Marfa; Marlin; Marshall; Mcallen; Mckinney; Mercedes; Meridian; Mesquite; Mexia; Midland; Mineola; Mineral Wells; Mission; Monahans; Mount Pleasant; Mount Vernon; Nacogdoches; Navasota; New Boston; New Braunfels; Odessa; Orange; Palestine; Pampa; Paris; Pasadena; Pearland; Pearsall; Pecos; Perryton; Pharr; Pittsburg; Plainview; Plano; Pollok; Port Arthur; Port Lavaca; Presidio; Quitman; Raymondville; Refugio; Richardson; Richmond; Rio Grande City; Robstown; Rockwall; Rosenberg; Round Rock; Rowlett; Rusk; San Angelo; San Antonio; San Benito; San Juan; San Marcos; San Saba; Schertz; Seguin; Seminole; Seymour; Sherman; Silsbee; Sinton; Snyder; Socorro; Sonora; South Houston; Stephenville; Sugar Land; Sulphur Springs; Sweetwater; Taylor; Temple; Terrell; Texarkana; Texas City; The Woodlands; Tomball; Trinity; Tyler; Uvalde; Van Horn; Vernon; Victoria; Waco; Washington; Watauga; Waxahachie; Weatherford; Webster; Weslaco; Wharton; Wichita Falls; Woodville; Zapata MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for current DFPS interns only. Brief : After a family has been investigated, a Family Based Safety Services (FBSS) worker helps them make changes to protect their children from abuse and neglect and keep them safe at home. This involves providing services offered by the agency, the family's community, and their extended families. Newly hired employees holding a Master's Degree in Social Worker may qualify for an increase at the point of hire. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what CPS Family Based Safety Services Workers do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations. * Provides time limited in-home services to meet the specific needs of families by identifying insufficient protective capacities, developing treatment plans, and using appropriate and necessary resources to minimize risk and provide for safety of the child; and maintains contact with parents and children to achieve treatment goals. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Interacts objectively with "caretakers" who have abused and/or neglected children in their care. * Discusses issues with families related, but not limited to income, money management, and personal relationships that they will probably consider personal and private. * Encounters family members who are angry and/or scared. * Helps identify resources and community support available to the family. * Assists parents to recognize behaviors that lead to child abuse and/or neglect and empower parents to identify ways to make the necessary behavioral changes. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Gather family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completing all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Works flexible work hours beyond 8a.m.-5p.m., Monday - Friday. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathic understanding when engaging families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources. * Attends and participates in trainings, meetings and staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer. * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work-related appointments and meetings after 5pm. * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours. * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle, and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Worker I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Worker II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II or Child Protective Investigations Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II or Child Protective Investigations Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Worker III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III or Child Protective Investigations Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III or Child Protective Investigations Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Worker IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV or Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Services Specialist IV or Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Services Worker Specialist I to a Child Protective Services Family Based Safety Services Worker IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Investigator I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 4 Posting Number: 12653 Closing Date: 03/09/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: LONGVIEW Job Location Address: 2130 ALPINE RD Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. The position, under the direction of a child placement supervisor, performs advanced social work related to protective services, intake, child abuse or neglect, assessment, Alternative Response, foster care and adoptions. Work involves making determinations of appropriate actions necessary to resolve family emotional and/or physical stress situations which cause child abuse or neglect. The position interacts routinely with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services staff, clients, representatives from various organizations, community resources, and the general public. Newly hired employees holding a Master's Degree in Social Worker may qualify for an increase at the point of hire. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Child Protective Investigations Specialist do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Determines the causes/factors of abuse/neglect to children to assess current or future risk to children by gathering information from parents, family members, and others; interviewing and examining children; assessing home environment; and gathering pertinent information from other sources. * Collaborates and works with the family to determine strengths, needs and action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include referring family for crisis intervention therapy or other community resources, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, and placing children in substitute care. * Enters contact, documentation information and narratives into the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System within required agency time frames. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships between families, Child Protective Services staff and law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources, to achieve a positive outcome. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among families, coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development. * Knowledge of family dynamics. * Knowledge of community resources. * Knowledge of extensive engagement strategies. * Knowledge of Child Protective Services policy and procedures. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Ability to operate a personal computer. * Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. * Ability to work with other professionals in the community. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee- DFPS Interns Only Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3W Posting Number: 9316 Closing Date: 03/17/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: WATAUGA Job Location Address: 5117 WATAUGA RD Other Locations: Abilene; Alamo; Alice; Alpine; Alvin; Amarillo; Anahuac; Andrews; Angleton; Anson; Aransas Pass; Archer City; Arlington; Athens; Atlanta; Austin; Bacliff; Ballinger; Bandera; Bastrop; Bay City; Baytown; Beaumont; Bedford; Beeville; Bellville; Big Spring; Boerne; Bonham; Borger; Bowie; Brady; Breckenridge; Brenham; Brownfield; Brownsville; Brownwood; Bryan; Burnet; Caldwell; Cameron; Canton; Canutillo; Carlsbad; Carrizo Springs; Carrollton; Carthage; Center; Centerville; Childress; Clarksville; Cleburne; Cleveland; Coldspring; Columbus; Conroe; Copperas Cove; Corpus Christi; Corsicana; Crockett; Crosby; Crystal City; Cuero; Cypress; Daingerfield; Dallas; Decatur; Del Rio; Denton; Dickinson; Dumas; Duncanville; Eagle Pass; Eastland; Edinburg; El Paso; Elgin; Elsa; Ennis; Fabens; Falfurrias; Floresville; Fort Stockton; Fort Worth; Fredericksburg; Gainesville; Galveston; Garland; Gatesville; Georgetown; Giddings; Gilmer; Goliad; Gonzales; Graham; Granbury; Grand Prairie; Grapevine; Greenville; Hallettsville; Hamilton; Harlingen; Haskell; Hearne; Hemphill; Hempstead; Henderson; Hereford; Hillsboro; Hondo; Houston; Humble; Huntsville; Hurst; Irving; Jacksonville; Jasper; Johnson City; Jourdanton; Karnes City; Katy; Kaufman; Kerrville; Killeen; Kingsville; Kingwood; Kirbyville; La Grange; Lake Jackson; Lake Worth; Lamesa; Lampasas; Lancaster; Laredo; Levelland; Lewisville; Liberty; Linden; Littlefield; Livingston; Llano; Lockhart; Longview; Lubbock; Lufkin; Lumberton; Madisonville; Marble Falls; Marfa; Marlin; Marshall; Mcallen; Mckinney; Mercedes; Meridian; Mesquite; Mexia; Midland; Mineola; Mineral Wells; Mission; Monahans; Mount Pleasant; Mount Vernon; Nacogdoches; Navasota; New Boston; New Braunfels; Odessa; Orange; Palestine; Pampa; Paris; Pasadena; Pearland; Pearsall; Pecos; Perryton; Pharr; Pittsburg; Plainview; Plano; Pollok; Port Arthur; Port Lavaca; Presidio; Quitman; Raymondville; Refugio; Richardson; Richmond; Rio Grande City; Robstown; Rockwall; Rosenberg; Round Rock; Rowlett; Rusk; San Angelo; San Antonio; San Benito; San Juan; San Marcos; San Saba; Schertz; Seguin; Seminole; Seymour; Sherman; Silsbee; Sinton; Snyder; Socorro; Sonora; South Houston; Stephenville; Sugar Land; Sulphur Springs; Sweetwater; Taylor; Temple; Terrell; Texarkana; Texas City; The Woodlands; Tomball; Trinity; Tyler; Uvalde; Van Horn; Vernon; Victoria; Waco; Washington; Watauga; Waxahachie; Weatherford; Webster; Weslaco; Wharton; Wichita Falls; Woodville; Zapata MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for current DFPS interns only. Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 7 Posting Number: 10356 Closing Date: 02/02/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 80% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 1340 AIRPORT COMMERCE DR BLDG 5, STE 525 Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 7 Posting Number: 12449 Closing Date: 03/03/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 14000 SUMMIT DR Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 * ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULE- SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY; 8-7PM* Functional Title CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 7 Posting Number: 12686 Closing Date: 02/08/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: ROUND ROCK Job Location Address: 1101 E OLD SETTLERS BLVD Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Alt Response Spec Trainee Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3E Posting Number: 12458 Closing Date: 03/06/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: DALLAS Job Location Address: 8700 N STEMMONS FWY Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. The position, under the direction of a child placement supervisor, performs advanced social work related to protective services, intake, child abuse or neglect, assessment, Alternative Response, foster care and adoptions. Work involves making determinations of appropriate actions necessary to resolve family emotional and/or physical stress situations which cause child abuse or neglect. The position interacts routinely with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services staff, clients, representatives from various organizations, community resources, and the general public. Newly hired employees holding a Master's Degree in Social Worker may qualify for an increase at the point of hire. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Child Protective Investigations Specialist do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Determines the causes/factors of abuse/neglect to children to assess current or future risk to children by gathering information from parents, family members, and others; interviewing and examining children; assessing home environment; and gathering pertinent information from other sources. * Collaborates and works with the family to determine strengths, needs and action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include referring family for crisis intervention therapy or other community resources, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, and placing children in substitute care. * Enters contact, documentation information and narratives into the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System within required agency time frames. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships between families, Child Protective Services staff and law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources, to achieve a positive outcome. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among families, coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development. * Knowledge of family dynamics. * Knowledge of community resources. * Knowledge of extensive engagement strategies. * Knowledge of Child Protective Services policy and procedures. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Ability to operate a personal computer. * Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. * Ability to work with other professionals in the community. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

WHY WORK FOR DFPS? The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected - children, elderly, and people with disabilities - from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 7 Posting Number: 8317 Closing Date: 02/17/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.40 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 50% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: KILLEEN Job Location Address: 503 PRIEST DR Other Locations: Copperas Cove MOS Codes: 31D, 35L, 35M, 68X, 73A, 311A, 351L, 351M, HM, IS, NC, 183X, 230X, 683X, 783X, IV, MST, INV, ISS OAP12, 0149, 5821, 5822, 5832, 1N0X1, 4C0X1, 4E0X1, 14NX, 42SX, 43HX, 71SX, 0868, 66C, 47L, 66R 67D, L24A, 001387 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Investigator I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3E Posting Number: 12583 Closing Date: 03/09/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: KAUFMAN Job Location Address: 2525 E HWY 175 STE E Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3W Posting Number: 12612 Closing Date: 02/07/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: WEATHERFORD Job Location Address: 1950 CLEAR LAKE RD Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Alternative Response Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI Alt Response Spec Trainee Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3W Posting Number: 12651 Closing Date: 03/10/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: FORT WORTH Job Location Address: 2700 BEN AVE Other Locations: Fort Worth MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Brief : Child Protective Investigations (CPI) investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. The position, under the direction of a child placement supervisor, performs advanced social work related to protective services, intake, child abuse or neglect, assessment, Alternative Response, foster care and adoptions. Work involves making determinations of appropriate actions necessary to resolve family emotional and/or physical stress situations which cause child abuse or neglect. The position interacts routinely with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services staff, clients, representatives from various organizations, community resources, and the general public. Newly hired employees holding a Master's Degree in Social Worker may qualify for an increase at the point of hire. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Child Protective Investigations Specialist do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Determines the causes/factors of abuse/neglect to children to assess current or future risk to children by gathering information from parents, family members, and others; interviewing and examining children; assessing home environment; and gathering pertinent information from other sources. * Collaborates and works with the family to determine strengths, needs and action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include referring family for crisis intervention therapy or other community resources, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, and placing children in substitute care. * Enters contact, documentation information and narratives into the Information Management Protecting Adults and Children System within required agency time frames. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships between families, Child Protective Services staff and law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and other community resources, to achieve a positive outcome. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among families, coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development. * Knowledge of family dynamics. * Knowledge of community resources. * Knowledge of extensive engagement strategies. * Knowledge of Child Protective Services policy and procedures. * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. * Skill in effective verbal and written communication. * Ability to operate a personal computer. * Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines. * Ability to work with other professionals in the community. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance, and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Alternative Response Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 3W Posting Number: 11570 Closing Date: 03/02/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: FORT WORTH Job Location Address: 3609 MARQUITA DRIVE Other Locations: MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 This position interacts routinely with children, caregivers, judges, attorneys, advocacy center personnel, law enforcement, medical personnel, school personnel and all other aspects of the community. This position will be tasked with investigating child deaths, serious injury cases, sexual abuse cases, high profile media cases, and other cases of significance. This position consistently works with the police and criminal District Attorney's and our partners at Fort Worth Alliance for Children. This position will require excellent presentation skills as this position requires presentation of cases at a weekly multi-disciplinary team meeting. Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. What You Get Beyond Your Paycheck When you join the State of Texas, your monthly paycheck is just one part of your real income. Our benefits provide extra value that many private employers simply don't match-often adding hundreds of dollars each month to what you take home or save. Here's what you get as a full-time employee: * 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members-saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs * Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans * Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that's time off you're actually paid for) * Optional dental, vision, and life insurance-at rates much lower than most private plans * Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care * Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment You also might qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which could help you pay off federal student loans faster. You can see all the details here: ERS recruitment brochure Functional Title: CPI Investigation Worker Trainee Job Title: CPI INV Trainee Spec I Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc Department: CPS Investigations Region 2 Posting Number: 12733 Closing Date: 02/11/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Protective Services Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 Salary Range: $3,816.65 - $5,372.41 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Days (First) Telework: Not Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 75% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: BRECKENRIDGE Job Location Address: 2315 W WALKER Other Locations: Breckenridge; Eastland MOS Codes: 0149,5805,5821,5822,5832,14N,14NX,183X,1N0X1,230X,311A,31D,351L,351M,35L,35M,42SX,43HX,4C0X1,4E0X1 5IX,683X,68X,71SX,73A,783X,HM,INV,IS,ISS,IV,MST,NC,OAP12 Child Protective Investigations (CPI) Investigators investigate claims of child abuse and neglect. They have the difficult task of figuring out what happened and predicting what will happen in the future. CPI receives and investigates reports of abuse and neglect 24 hours per day, every day of the year. A CPI investigation includes interviewing and gathering information to see if abuse or neglect happened and if intervention is necessary. The investigator considers both risk and safety issues and may recommend services for the child and family to reduce the risk of further abuse or neglect. HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE: To explore more of what Investigation Specialists do, click here. For a realistic job preview of this position and to learn more DFPS, please click here. You will also have access to a self-assessment that will help you determine if this type of work is something that is a good fit for you. DFPS is committed to its employees' professional development and ongoing success and offers the DFPS Certification Program to enhance skills and advance careers within our organization. The program is tailored specifically for DFPS employees, provides the opportunity to earn additional compensation through a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and innovation, and equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to deepen their expertise in their respective role. Essential Job Functions (EJFs): * Responds quickly in crisis situations involving children who may be in an abusive or neglectful situation. Sometimes these situations can be dangerous. * Conducts forensic investigations of reports of abuse/neglect to children to determine if abuse or neglect occurred and conducts assessments to determine the current or future risk of harm to children. * Observes children for signs of any harm and assess the signs to determine if they are the result of abuse or neglect. This could involve children with serious injuries and child fatalities. * Interviews people in the case such as the parents, caregivers, person who reports the concern, family members, and others familiar with the family situation. This may include medical staff, teachers, law enforcement, etc. * Assesses child safety and takes the necessary actions to protect the child as appropriate. This could include removing a child from their family. * Talks frankly and objectively with families about matters they may consider personal and private, such as parenting decisions and actions, sexual abuse, income, money management, and personal relationships. * Determines action to be taken to remove or to reduce an immediate threat to the safety of a child to include working with families to identify family members who can assist with keeping the child safe, testifying in court to seek emergency protective services, placing children in substitute care, referring family for immediate crisis intervention therapy or other community resources. * Documents all relevant and appropriate information gathered during the investigation and completes all required forms accurately and in a timely manner. * Gathers family and kinship information to support the child in a placement, should the child be placed in DFPS custody. * Participates in a regular on-call rotation that requires response to situations of abuse/neglect after normal business hours including overnight and weekend. * Develops and maintains effective working relationships with law enforcement officials, judicial officials, legal resources, medical professionals, and the community. * Works under constant deadlines that require prioritizing tasks and the ability to work flexible hours. * Maintains a balance of objectivity and empathy for families living in stressful and crisis situations. * Attends and participates in training/meetings/staffings. * Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. * Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity and competency among coworkers and all work-related contacts. * Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): * Knowledge of child development * Knowledge of family dynamics * Skill in effective verbal and written communication * Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships * Skill in problem solving techniques * Ability to operate a personal computer * Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work related appointments and meetings after 5pm * Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours * Ability to work in an emotion-filled environment and which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: This position requires use of the applicant's personal motor vehicle to complete job functions. Applicants for positions must have a reliable motor vehicle and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver's license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load. Applicants must provide proof of driving record, insurance and license. Initial Screening Criteria: Child Protective Investigations Specialist I: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Child Protective Investigations Specialist II: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I for 9 months AND have received Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II or Child Protective Services Specialist II in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist III: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist II for 9 months AND have received Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III or Child Protective Services Specialist III in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Child Investigations Specialist IV: An accredited Bachelor's degree OR accredited Associate's degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience OR 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations. Employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist III for 24 months AND have received Senior Advanced Child Protective Services Specialist Certification OR currently employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services OR previously employed as a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV or Child Protective Services Specialist IV in Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Preferred Criteria * Degree in Social Work, Human Services (Psychology, Sociology, Child & Family Studies, or Counseling), or Criminal Justice. * Prior work experience in human services, social work, mental health, legal, or criminal justice such as parole/probation or related fields. * Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. * Typing and writing proficiency or writing-related experience/education. Additional Information: This position may be filled at any level from a Child Protective Investigations Specialist I to a Child Protective Investigations Specialist IV. Factors such as education and experience may be considered when establishing the starting salary. Applicants selected for this position are also eligible to receive a $416.66 monthly increase in addition to the base salary. Applicants hired into an investigative position will receive this increase the first of the month following 120 days of tenure. Once employed, the incumbent must remain in an investigative position to continue to receive the additional pay. If you leave Family Investigations or AR and return within the last 12-months, the INV stipend is given immediately. All other situations must wait the 120 days to receive the INV stipend. This position will be in a mobile unit which means the majority of the work will be conducted using mobile technology, such as a tablet, while away from the office. Being mobile requires working independently yet still being responsive to supervision and your assigned unit. Newly hired DFPS employees in eligible positions will be assigned a DFPS cellular phone. Learn about the essential COMPETENCIES required/acquired during the first few months of employment here: DFPS - CPS Practice Guides & Core Competencies PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: These requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements. These are typical requirements; however, reasonable accommodations are possible. Physical Activities: He/she is frequently asked to stand, hear and talk; he/she is occasionally asked to climb. Physical Demands: The incumbent typically performs work that requires him/her to exert up to 20 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Visual Requirements: The incumbent must be able to see objects clearly at 20 inches or less, and at 20 or more feet. In addition, he/she must be able to adjust his/her eyes to bring objects into focus, distinguish colors, see objects in his/her peripheral vision, and see objects in three dimensions. Working Conditions: He/she typically works in a mobile environment (the majority of work is performed outside of the office environment) and is exposed occasionally to adverse environmental conditions including, but not necessarily limited to, extreme heat, wetness and humidity, chemicals, close quarters, gases and heights. Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC. Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's s, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at ************************** with additional questions. Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver's record check. State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies. As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: *************************************************************** . In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at **************. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.