Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking Permanency Workers (Social Service Specialist 1) to help shape brighter, more secure futures for children in Oregon. In this role, you will engage with families, build meaningful connections, and support them as they move toward safety and stability.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess the safety, well-being, and development of children in care, and support transitions such as returning home or adoption.
• 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.
• Keep accurate case records, including assessments, plans, and required documentation within timelines.
• Prepare reports, make recommendations, participate in court hearings and review boards.
• Collaborate with caregivers, schools, service providers, and DHS partners to support child stability and permanency.

Minimum Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• 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.
• Pursuant to ORS 419B.021, any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the educational requirements; experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions.
• Degree must be completed, not in progress.

Essential Attributes

• Experience managing workload with consistent follow-through.
• Experience reviewing work for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with policy.
• Experience engaging children and families to support safety, stability, and well‑being.
• Experience applying critical thinking to analyze issues and develop solutions.
• Experience collaborating with service providers, community partners, and internal teams.
• Experience communicating with respect, cultural awareness, and trauma‑informed practices.

Working Conditions

• Work takes place in offices, participants’ homes, and various community locations.
• The office is constructed of cubicles, so work is often interrupted and noise levels are sometimes high.
• Frequent travel is required for transporting children or families and completing case‑related activities, including occasional overnight travel.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with occasional compensated overtime including evenings and weekends.
• The employee participates in a rotating on‑call schedule that includes evening and weekend work.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress is possible.
• Situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure safety may occur.
• Activities may include traversing stairs, moving across uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.