Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) Bilingual English & Spanish Required

Bilingual requirement: English and Spanish. This position requires duties to be completed in both languages. The job offer is contingent upon passing a proficiency test; a 5% differential pay may be awarded upon passing.

About the role

Help shape brighter, more secure futures for children in Oregon. As a Permanency Worker, you will engage with families and build meaningful connections that deepen your understanding of their strengths, individuality, and needs, supporting them as they move toward safety and stability.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess 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.

Requirements

• Bilingual in Spanish and English.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field plus one of the following:
  • One year of human services related experience.
  • Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Associate degree plus one of the following:
  • Two years of human services related experience.
  • One year of human services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Degree must be completed; coursework in progress does not qualify.

Skills

• Managing workload with consistent follow-through.
• Reviewing work for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with policy.
• Engaging children and families to support safety, stability, and well-being.
• Applying critical thinking to analyze issues and develop solutions.
• Collaborating with service providers, community partners, and internal teams.
• Communicating with respect, cultural awareness, and trauma-informed practices.

Working Conditions

• Work takes place in offices, participants’ homes, and various community locations.
• Frequent travel required for transporting children or families and completing case-related activities.
• Schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• Occasional compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.
• Participation in a rotating on-call schedule that includes evening and weekend work.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress.
• Situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure safety.
• Activities may include traversing stairs, moving across uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats.

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).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

$4,954 – $7,592 per month.

This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.