Temporary Lodging Assistant (Social Service Assistant), Limited Duration, Multiple Positions

Initial posting date: 08/24/2026 • Application deadline: 09/07/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking to fill multiple Limited Duration, Temporary Lodging Assistant (Social Service Assistant) positions in our Albany office. These positions are expected to end 6/30/2027 and are eligible for health benefits, leave accrual, and are represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

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 greater well-being.

Responsibilities

• Provide supervision, support, and care to children and youth in temporary lodging, maintaining a safe, stable, and family-like environment.
• Monitor and support the safety, health, behavioral, and basic needs of children and youth, including meals, hygiene, clothing, medications, school, and appointments.
• Follow established safety, supervision, visitation, and care plans while responding appropriately to behavioral concerns, crises, and safety issues.
• Safely transport children and youth to school, appointments, visits, placements, and other approved activities.
• Observe and document children’s behaviors, needs, interactions, and progress, providing timely and objective information to caseworkers and supervisors.
• Contribute observations and information to child and family assessments, risk and safety assessments, and safety and supervision planning.
• Support transitions and placements of children and youth into resource parent homes or with parents by temporarily bridging gaps in services and care.
• When temporary lodging prevention activities are not needed, support other case aides and assist with general casework duties.
• Communicate and collaborate with caseworkers, supervisors, families, resource parents, service providers, and other partners regarding the safety, needs, and well-being of children and youth.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• 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

• Administrative Support: Experience providing administrative support by coordinating schedules, managing correspondence, and maintaining accurate and organized records.
• Documentation: Experience documenting observations, client interactions, and case-related information accurately and in accordance with established procedures.
• Trauma-Informed Practices: Experience applying trauma-informed practices when interacting with or providing services to individuals who have experienced trauma.
• Communication and Collaboration: Experience communicating and collaborating with coworkers and people from diverse backgrounds to provide information, coordinate services, or accomplish shared goals.
• Working with Children and Families: Experience working with children and families from diverse backgrounds while adapting communication or service approaches to meet individual needs.
• De-escalation Skills: Experienced in managing crisis situations through effective de-escalation, teamwork, and trauma-informed communication to ensure safety, reduce conflict, and support positive client outcomes.

Working Conditions

• Work a flexible schedule as a condition of employment, with hours often adjusted within a given week. The work schedule may include evenings, weekends, and occasional mandatory overtime.
• Work in person in office settings, clients’ homes, hotels, hospitals, and other community locations. Travel will be required and may include hazardous weather, evening or low-light conditions, and occasional overnight stays for meetings, training, and case-related activities.
• Frequently engage in physical activities, including lifting up to 40 pounds, assisting children with car seats, and responding quickly to ensure children’s safety, which may involve running, bending, lifting, or other physical interventions.
• Work with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions. Encounter sensitive situations involving trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach and prompt decision-making to maintain a safe environment.
• Office environment may include cubicles, frequent interruptions, and moderate to high noise levels.

Background Checks

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification.
• Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship.

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.