Abuse and neglect is a huge problem that affects the lives of tens of thousands of children in Texas each year. Every day in communities across Texas, thousands of CPS employees work to protect the safety and well-being of our state's children.
CPS is a rewarding career that gives you the opportunity to work with children and their families to make their homes safe and a place where children can thrive. In the small percentage of cases where that's not possible, CPS finds other safe places for children to live. This can be with relatives, in foster care or adoptive homes.
What jobs are available at CPS?
In this first video, CPS caseworkers tell us why they love their jobs:
Job Preview Video: Working for Child Protective Services
Working for CPS - Watch caseworkers in action in this in-depth look at the jobs of the five types CPS caseworkers, and what it takes to be successful. You'll learn about the challenges and rewards of these important jobs directly from real caseworkers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have a degree?
No. Entry level Child Protective Services Specialist can have one of the following:
- A Bachelor's degree OR an Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant work experience.
- 60 college credit hours plus 2 years of relevant work experience.
- 90 college credit hours plus 1 year of relevant work experience.
Relevant work experience includes:
- Social, human, or protective services.
- Paid or volunteer work with social service agencies or communities that provide services to families or at-risk populations.
I think I could do this job, but will I be trained?
Yes! You will get lots of great training before beginning your job, including on the job training. While you will be visiting clients on your own, you will have the support of your co-workers and supervisor any time you need it.
Are there opportunities for career advancement?
Yes! You will receive ongoing training to prepare you to advance in your career with CPS. Caseworkers have a career ladder based on levels of certification.