Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Imagine having an opportunity to build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about how each family functions. As a Permanency Worker, you will have an opportunity to make a positive impact on Oregonians in need of support and resources. If you are looking to make a difference, this Permanency Worker position may be for you! Join our OUTSTANDING Astoria Child Welfare team and be a part of a rewarding journey, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in our vibrant community. Together, let's make a lasting difference! Summary of Duties As an employee working within the Child Welfare Program, you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being. Interested in learning more? Here are some testimonials from current ODHS Child Welfare Workers. A Permanency Worker you will Safety & Wellbeing: You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Engagement: You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families. Strategies: You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement. Responsibilities: Your tasks include conducting home visits, writing reports, attending court hearings, and problem-solving child safety issues. Balancing Act: You balance the needs of the child and the family in compliance with legal requirements. Opportunities: You will build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about each family’s dynamics.
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.
- Experience presenting complex information to clients, co-workers, law enforcement and in court in a clear and concise manner.
- Experience establishing and maintaining professional casework relationships that engage and empower families.
- Experience learning and utilizing technology, multiple databases, accurately enter data, and use word processing software.
- Experience using trauma-informed practices that are inclusive of the child and family's language, race, and culture.
- Demonstrated experience ensuring accurate, timely, and thorough record-keeping of case details and progress.
- Demonstrated experience in assessing family dynamics, child needs, and risks to inform permanency planning.
- Experience in tracking and monitoring case progress, ensuring that interventions are implemented, and outcomes are achieved through consistent evaluation and adjustment of strategies.
Responsibilities
- Conducting home visits
- Writing reports
- Attending court hearings
- Problem-solving child safety issues
- Balancing the needs of the child and the family in compliance with legal requirements
- Building rapport with families, understanding their uniqueness, and learning about each family’s dynamics
- Engaging with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families
- Developing and implementing multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement
Benefits
- ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning
- Cost of Living Adjustments
- Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range)
- Amazing benefits package
- Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
