Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

2d•$4,954 - $7,592•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is hiring a Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1) for its Child Welfare Program, based at the Midtown Office in Portland. The permanent assigned office is 815 NE Davis Street, but while that building is unavailable, staff will report to the temporary location at 6035 NE 78th Court. The role supports children and families in achieving family goals while ensuring child safety. It involves case management with diverse families, including American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and collaboration with tribal entities and community partners. The caseworker engages with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using trauma-informed and antiracist approaches; develops strategies based on family strengths and needs; conducts home visits; completes legal documentation; attends court hearings; and addresses child safety issues. The position balances the needs of children and families with applicable legal requirements and builds relationships to understand and support each family's circumstances. Work takes place in offices, participants’ homes, and other community settings. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may fluctuate with service needs. Occasional compensated overtime during evening and weekend work may be required, and after-hours on-call coverage is required as needed. Frequent travel is required, sometimes for several hours and in hazardous weather. The work may involve interacting with people who have experienced trauma and handling sensitive topics involving trauma, abuse, and crises.

Requirements

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
One of the following completed education and experience combinations: a bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field; a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field plus one year of Human Services-related experience or coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency; or an associate degree plus two years of Human Services-related experience, or one year of such experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
Experience screening and assessing client needs to identify appropriate community and culturally responsive resources, including partner agency programs or services.
Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.
Demonstrated understanding of working with diverse populations.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, including writing clearly and concisely in plain language for diverse audiences and adapting communication to different stakeholders.
Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Word or database software.

Responsibilities

Support families in achieving their goals while ensuring child safety.
Provide case management to diverse families, including American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and collaborate with tribal entities and community partners.
Engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using trauma-informed and antiracist approaches.
Develop and implement strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
Conduct home visits, complete legal documentation, attend court hearings, and address child safety issues.
Balance the needs of children and families with legal requirements.
Build meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs.