Social Service Assistant (Generalist)

Initial Posting Date: 07/29/2026   Application Deadline: 08/05/2026

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others.

This Social Service Assistant position works in our Springfield and/or Eugene office, serving individuals and families in person. You will interact with a wide range of people and enjoy a position where each day is unique, making a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families.

Responsibilities

• Ensure children's safety and well-being during visits and transport, addressing any issues and documenting outcomes.
• Provide transportation support for children and others associated with the case, supporting their emotional needs.
• Keep accurate records, prepare court notes, provide feedback to service workers, and participate in meetings and conferences.
• Implement and manage individual visitation agreements and safety plans by coordinating with case workers, clients, and caregivers.
• Plan visit schedules, locations, supervision levels, and safety measures using information from various sources.
• Review and explain visitation agreements and guidelines to clients, family members, and caregivers.
• Communicate visitation expectations and respond to post-visit inquiries from caregivers and family members.
• Work with challenging and sometimes hostile clients.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• One year of experience working in a human services or behavioral health setting; OR
• An associate degree in any field; OR
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Experience working effectively both independently and as part of a team to accomplish shared goals.
• Planning and Execution: Experience organizing work, prioritizing competing responsibilities, managing time effectively, and meeting deadlines with attention to detail.
• Equity and Inclusion: Experience working effectively with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and demonstrating intercultural competency in interactions and service delivery.
• Problem Solving: Experience identifying problems, evaluating solutions, and applying a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach to decision-making.
• Communication and Customer Service: Experience communicating effectively with a variety of people, de-escalating tense situations, and demonstrating professionalism and appropriate assertiveness when necessary.

Working Conditions

• Work in-person in Springfield and/or Eugene, Oregon, including offices, homes of participants, community sites, hospitals, and hotels.
• Travel for meetings, trainings, and other case-related activities, including occasional overnight travel and transporting children and/or families to appointments.
• Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. During training: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Flexibility to work early or late when needed, including occasional weekend availability.
• Frequent physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and assisting children with car seats.
• Handle sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach to ensure a safe environment.
• Interact with youth and adults who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
• Fast-paced and constantly evolving work environment; ability to adapt to changing priorities, processes, and business needs is essential.

Background Checks

• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship is offered.
• Within three days of hire, you must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States (E-Verify will be used).
• Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.

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

Salary Range: $4,124 - $5,714 per month

Schedule

• Regular Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Training Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.