Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1), Multiple Positions

About the Role

Step into a transformative role where your passion for the well-being of children and your ability to connect with families come together to create lasting change. Become a catalyst for positive impact in the lives of Oregon's children and their loved ones. We are currently seeking to fill multiple Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialists 1) positions to join our Child Welfare team based in our Gresham office located on 635 SE 223rd Ave.

Summary of Duties

As an employee working within the Child Welfare Program, you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon's most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.

Responsibilities

• Support families by playing a critical role in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
• Provide case management by working with diverse families, including American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
• Engage effectively by interacting with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
• Develop strategies by creating and implementing strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
• Handle documentation and legal duties by conducting home visits, completing legal documentation, attending court hearings, and addressing child safety issues.
• Balance needs and legal requirements by ensuring a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
• Build rapport by establishing meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and supporting their unique needs.

Minimum Qualifications

Per ORS 419B.021, any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications. Degree must be completed, not in progress. 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.

Essential Attributes

• Experience screening and assessing clients' needs to determine appropriate community and culturally responsive resources, as well as partnering agency programs or services.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.
• Demonstrated understanding of working with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated experience to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. This includes experience in writing clearly and concisely using plain language appropriate for diverse audiences, conveying information with clarity, and tailoring communication style to suit different stakeholders.
• Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
• Proficient in computer applications, including Microsoft Word or various database software programs.

Working Conditions

• Work is conducted in offices, participant's homes, and other community sites.
• Standard work schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hours may fluctuate based on service needs.
• Occasional compensated overtime during evening and weekend work may be required.
• Participation in an on-call rotation for mandatory on-call for child protective services.
• Frequent travel required. Some travel may be hours away and in hazardous weather conditions.
• Interaction with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may exhibit challenges in controlling their emotions.
• Handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach to ensure a safe environment.

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.

Salary Range: $4,954.00 – $7,592.00 USD Monthly. The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

Application Deadline: 09/13/2026