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

About the Role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking multiple Limited Duration Temporary Lodging Assistants (Social Service Assistants) in West Portland. These positions are located at the Alberta Branch (30 North Webster Ave) and Midtown (815 NE Davis St) offices, with a duration ending 6/30/2027. Limited Duration positions are eligible for health benefits, leave accrual, and are represented by a union.

As an employee in the Child Welfare Program, you will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families, supporting the Child Welfare Vision for Transformation to ensure children and young adults are safer, healthier, experience less trauma, and achieve greater well-being.

Responsibilities

• Provide 24/7 supervision for children in Temporary Lodging, including daytime, overnight coverage, and transport to various destinations (e.g., teen transport).
• Serve as Team Lead for General Temporary Lodging Assistants across multiple locations, managing scheduling and coordinating with Team Leads.
• Support in-home safety plans by documenting observations, engaging with families, and reporting concerns promptly.
• Transport children for appointments, foster care visits, guardianship, pre-adoptive home visits, or inter-/intrastate returns as directed by caseworkers.
• Maintain care for children’s hygiene, basic needs, school attendance, and transportation.
• Treat children and families with compassion, dignity, and respect, ensuring culturally sensitive interactions.
• Prepare notes for court testimony and provide verbal or written feedback to service workers.
• Conduct office sit-ins with youth, regular site visits, and field-based support as required.
• Provide backup support to Family Time Social Service Assistants (SSAs), Case Aids, and Teen Transport staff when not assigned to Temporary Lodging.

Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• One year of experience 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 scheduling, correspondence, and record-keeping.
• Ability to document observations and case-related information accurately and in detail.
• Knowledge and application of trauma-informed practices in client interactions.
• Strong communication skills for collaborating with diverse populations using culturally sensitive approaches.
• Experience working with children and families from varied backgrounds, demonstrating intercultural competency.
• Physical ability to perform tasks such as climbing stairs, walking on uneven terrain, assisting children with car seats, and lifting up to 40 pounds.

Working Conditions

• Work conducted in offices, participants' homes, and community sites, with occasional travel for meetings, trainings, or case-related activities.
• Travel may occur in hazardous weather conditions.
• Four schedule options:
  • Option A: Wednesday–Saturday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
  • 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, with occasional overtime, including evenings and weekends.
• Interaction with individuals who may have experienced trauma and exhibit emotional challenges.
• Stressful situations requiring quick decision-making.

Background Checks

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

Benefits

• Access to ODHS Employee Resource Groups for shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments and annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

Salary range: $4,124.00–$5,714.00 per month.