Social Service Specialist 1 (Permanency Caseworker)
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking compassionate individuals to join their team as Permanency Workers. This role focuses on safeguarding children and strengthening families by connecting them with resources and understanding their dynamics. The position is part of the Child Welfare team in Newport and aims to support children and young adults in being safer, healthier, experience less trauma, and achieve greater well-being. The role involves working with diverse families, including American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, and collaborating with tribal entities and community partners. Caseworkers will engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes. They will develop strategies leveraging family strengths, conduct home visits, complete legal documentation, attend court hearings, and address child safety issues, ensuring a balance between family needs and legal requirements. Building rapport with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs is also a key aspect of the role.
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.
- Demonstrates a high level of comfort in collaborating with others to make decisions, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered, and the best possible outcomes are achieved for children and families.
- Experience in building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and affected communities.
- Experience conducting professional communications, both verbally and in writing, including case plans, court reports, assessments, and other related documents.
- Experience working with diverse populations and implementing trauma-informed practices that address individual needs, prioritize safety, build trust, and ensure cultural sensitivity.
- Experience with case management systems, document management software, and electronic communication tools.
- Experience providing services and resources to children and families within social services settings.
- A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
Nice To Haves
- A cover letter is encouraged.
Responsibilities
- Support families in achieving their goals while ensuring child safety.
- Work with diverse families, potentially including American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
- Interact with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
- Develop and implement strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
- Conduct home visits, complete legal documentation, and attend court hearings.
- Address child safety issues.
- Ensure a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
- Establish meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs.
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.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
