Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

State of Oregon • Hillsboro, OR

2d

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Program seeks a Permanency Worker to support children and families and promote children’s safety, well-being, stability, and permanency. The role involves building rapport with families, understanding their circumstances, and connecting them with appropriate support and resources. Child Welfare works to keep families together whenever it is safe and partners with Tribal nations to implement the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act.

The Permanency Worker monitors and assesses children in care, supports transitions such as reunification or adoption, coordinates services, and collaborates with families, caregivers, schools, providers, and agency partners. The position is permanent and full-time, represented by SEIU. Work takes place in ODHS offices, participant homes, and community sites. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with hours that may fluctuate to meet service needs and may include evening and weekend work, overtime, and rotating on-call duties. Occasional travel, including overnight travel, is required.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• A completed bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service; or a completed unrelated bachelor’s degree plus one year of human services-related experience or coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Alternatively, a completed associate degree plus 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.
• Experience assessing and identifying client needs, connecting individuals and families to services through culturally responsive support, and collaborating with cross-system partners and community organizations.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Experience supporting people from diverse backgrounds, including individuals experiencing mental health challenges, trauma, or substance use issues.
• Experience using crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques to support people experiencing emotional distress while maintaining safety, professionalism, and empathy.
• Experience preparing detailed narrative documentation and court reports for client cases.
• Experience communicating by phone, in writing, using a computer, and face-to-face with people who have varying learning styles and needs.
• Experience organizing and prioritizing work and managing time to meet deadlines.
• A cover letter describing how the applicant meets the minimum qualifications and essential attributes is required.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess the safety, well-being, and development of children in care, and support transitions such as returning home or adoption.
• Maintain accurate case records, including assessments, plans, and required documentation.
• Facilitate and observe parent–child visits, provide coaching, and arrange transportation.
• Maintain regular contact with families and partners while developing and updating safety and service plans.
• Coordinate services, make referrals, and track progress for children and families.
• Prepare reports and recommendations, and participate in court hearings and review boards.
• Collaborate with caregivers, schools, service providers, and ODHS partners to support child stability and permanency.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases until the top of the listed salary range is reached.
• Amazing benefits package (details not specified).
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference for eligible candidates who meet the position qualifications.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level