Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Child Welfare Program works to ensure children and families can live safe, stable, and healthy lives. It partners with Tribal nations to implement the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act and focuses on keeping families together whenever safe. The Permanency Worker supports children and families by building rapport, understanding each family’s circumstances, and connecting them with support and resources. The role contributes to child safety, health, stability, and well-being, including transitions such as reunification or adoption. The position is permanent and full-time. Work takes place in ODHS offices, participants’ homes, and community sites. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with hours fluctuating to meet service needs. Some evening and weekend work, overtime, and participation in a rotating evening and weekend on-call schedule may be required. Occasional travel for meetings, training, and case-related activities is required, including occasional overnight travel. The role involves frequent physical activity, lifting up to 50 pounds, and helping children with car seats. Work includes sensitive issues involving trauma, abuse, crises, and emotionally challenging situations, requiring trauma-informed practice and quick safety-related decisions. Applicants must submit a cover letter describing how they meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes, along with detailed work and education history. A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required. Finalists undergo criminal history and background checks, including an FBI CJIS fingerprint-based check. ODHS does not offer visa sponsorship; new hires must complete Form I-9 within three days, and the agency uses E-Verify.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Meet the applicable education qualification: a bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field; or a bachelor’s degree unrelated to human services 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.
- For positions engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations, the degree must be completed; experience alone does not satisfy the minimum educational qualification.
- Experience assessing client needs and connecting individuals and families with appropriate services and resources through culturally responsive support, while 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 applying crisis intervention and conflict-resolution techniques with professionalism and empathy to support safety and stability.
- Experience preparing detailed narrative case documentation and court reports, including case activities, client interactions, and observations for judicial proceedings.
- Experience communicating by phone, in writing, using a computer, and face-to-face with individuals with varying learning styles and needs.
- Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
- Applicants must provide a cover letter and detailed work and education history.
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.
- Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
- Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference for eligible qualified candidates.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
