Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Position Title Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) Initial Posting Date 11/04/2026 Application Deadline 11/19/2026 Agency Department of Human Services Salary Range 4954.00-7592.00 Position Type Employee Job Description The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are 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 to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! Help shape brighter, more secure futures for children in Oregon. As a Permanency Worker, you will engage with families and build meaningful connections that deepen your understanding of their strengths, individuality, and needs, supporting them as they move toward safety and stability. Summary Of Duties As a Permanency Worker, you will: Monitor and assess safety, well-being, and development of children in care, and support transitions such as returning home or adoption. Facilitate and observe parent–child visits, provide coaching, and arrange transportation. Maintain regular contact with families and partners while developing and updating safety and service plans. Coordinate services, make referrals, and track progress for children and families. Keep accurate case records, including assessments, plans, and required documentation within timelines. Prepare reports, make recommendations, participate in court hearings and review boards. Collaborate with caregivers, schools, service providers, and DHS partners to support child stability and permanency. Minimum Qualifications A bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service. 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. * Degree must be completed, not in progress. Pursuant to ORS 419B.021, states that any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions. Essential Attributes Experience managing workload with consistent follow-through. Experience reviewing work for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with policy. Experience engaging children and families to support safety, stability, and well‑being. Experience applying critical thinking to analyze issues and develop solutions. Experience of collaborating with service providers, community partners, and internal teams. Experience communicating with respect, cultural awareness, and trauma‑informed practices. Working Conditions Work will take place in offices, participants’ homes, and various community locations. Frequent travel is required for transporting children or families and completing case‑related activities. The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs. There may be occasional requirements for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours. The employee will participate in a rotating on‑call schedule that includes evening and weekend work. You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses. You may encounter situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others. Activities may include traversing stairs, moving across uneven terrain, and assisting children (up to 50 pounds) in and out of car seats. Background Checks And Requirements If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information. The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. 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 that you are authorized to work in the United States. 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). Amazing benefits package. Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Employment Preference Veterans’ And Oregon National Guard Preference Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources. General Information This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification. Contact Information Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or Job-specific questions. Please include the job requisition number: REQ-204929. Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado. Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Phone (call or text): View phone number on click.appcast.io. Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado. Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Phone (call or text): View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Oregon Inc