Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon•Gresham, OR

3d•$4,954 - $7,592•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1) to join their team in the Gresham office. This role focuses on creating lasting change in the lives of children and families by identifying appropriate placements, supporting families in achieving their goals, and ensuring child safety. The position involves case management with diverse populations, utilizing a trauma-informed and antiracist approach, and developing strategies to leverage family strengths. Responsibilities include conducting home visits, completing legal documentation, attending court hearings, and balancing child/family needs with legal requirements. Training will begin at the East Portland Branch on Glisan, with a later transition to the Gresham Branch.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service.
OR A bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services and either: One year of Human Services related experience.
OR Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, or
An associate degree and either: Two years of Human Services related experience.
OR One year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
Experience identifying client needs and connecting them to relevant and culturally responsive community services or eligibility for programs related to Human Services.
Experience preparing detailed narrative documentation and court reports for individual client cases, including case activities, client interactions, and other pertinent observations for judicial proceedings.
Experience working with and supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those that may be experiencing mental health challenges, trauma or substance use issues.
Knowledge and experience applying crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques to support individuals and families experiencing emotional distress, ensuring safety and stability while maintaining professionalism and empathy.
Demonstrated ability to deliver clear, professional communication by phone, in writing, and in face‑to‑face interactions with individuals of varying learning styles and needs.
Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
Experience should include computer proficiency.

Responsibilities

Provide support in identifying and securing appropriate placements for children.
Participate in the mandatory on-call rotation for child protective services.
Support families by playing a critical role in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
Provide case management by working with diverse families, including American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
Engage effectively by interacting with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
Develop strategies by creating and implementing strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
Handle documentation and legal duties by conducting home visits, completing legal documentation, attending court hearings, and addressing child safety issues.
Balance needs and legal requirements by ensuring a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
Build rapport by establishing meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and supporting their unique needs.