Teen permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services seeks a Teen Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) to join the Child Welfare team in Gresham. This role involves making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.

Responsibilities

• Support families by helping them achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
• Engage effectively with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach.
• Develop 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 ensuring child safety.
• Build rapport with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field, 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 resources.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records.
• Demonstrated understanding of working with diverse populations.
• Experience communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Experience collaborating with community partners as part of a local multidisciplinary team.
• Experience organizing tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and managing time to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Word or various database software programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field, or meeting the educational requirements outlined above.
• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for positions involving child protective investigations and custody determinations.

Benefits

• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the listed salary range).
• Awesome benefits package.
• Possibility of eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.