Temporary Lodging Assistant (Social Service Assistant), Limited Duration, Multiple Positions, Multiple Locations (Gresham/East Portland)

Initial posting date: 08/11/2026 • Application deadline: 08/18/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services • Salary range: $4,124.00–$5,714.00

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking multiple Limited Duration Lodging Assistants (Social Service Assistants) for our East Portland and Gresham offices. This position is an opportunity to help families by ensuring they can spend quality time together, with varied and meaningful workdays. Limited Duration positions (ending 6/30/2027) are eligible for health benefits, leave accrual, and are represented by a union.

Responsibilities

• Provide backup support to Family Time Social Service Assistants (SSAs) and Case Aids, Teen Transport, and general Temporary Lodging Assistants in the district, including one-off assignments based on daily needs.
• Provide 24/7 supervision for children in Temporary Lodging, including daytime and overnight coverage, and transport them to various destinations, including teen transport.
• Serve as Team Lead for General Temporary Lodging Assistants across multiple locations.
• Manage scheduling responsibilities and coordinate closely with Team Leads.
• Support in-home safety plans by providing detailed documentation, engagement, and promptly reporting concerns when not in Temporary Lodging.
• Transport children for appointments, foster care, guardianship, pre-adoptive home visits, or to return children to the state with legal jurisdiction.
• Maintain care for children related to hygiene, basic needs, school attendance, appointments, and transportation.
• Treat people with compassion and dignity, ensuring children and family members feel respected.
• Prepare notes for court testimony and provide verbal or written feedback to service workers.
• Sit with youth in the office as needed and conduct regular site visits or field-based support.

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

• Experience providing administrative support, including coordinating schedules, managing correspondence, and maintaining organized records.
• Experience documenting observations and information related to client cases with accuracy and detail.
• Knowledge and experience using trauma-informed practices in client interactions and support services.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with diverse populations using culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches.
• Experience working with children and families from varied backgrounds, demonstrating intercultural competency.

Working Conditions

• Work conducted in offices, participants' homes, and other community sites.
• Occasional travel required for meetings, trainings, and case-related activities, including in hazardous weather conditions.
• Schedule options:
  • Option A: Sunday–Wednesday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM (includes morning school transport and weekend Temporary Lodging support).
  • Option B: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM.
  • Option C: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM.
  • Option D: No preference.
• Hours may fluctuate based on service needs; occasional overtime, including evenings and weekends, may be required.
• Interaction with individuals who may have experienced trauma and exhibit emotional challenges.
• Stressful situations requiring quick decision-making.
• Frequent physical activity, including climbing stairs, walking on uneven terrain, assisting children with car seats, and lifting up to 40 pounds.

Background Checks

• Criminal history and background check required for finalists; adverse results may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship offered.
• Must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form within three days of hire to confirm work authorization (E-Verify used).
• FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) fingerprint-based criminal records check required for finalists.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities for shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.