Initial Posting Date: 04/16/2024Application Deadline: 05/01/2024Agency: Department of Human ServicesSalary Range: 4536.00-6952.00Position Type: EmployeePosition Title: Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)Job Description:We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are actively working to build an equitable agency with the as our guide toward our vision of an agency free of racism, discrimination and bias. We believe that teams in which everyone can show up as their full authentic self are key to creating a thriving workforce that can better serve communities. We welcome members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to apply.Imagine having an opportunity to build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about how each family functions. As a Permanency Worker, you will have an opportunity to make a positive impact on Oregonians in need of support and resources. If you are looking to make a difference, this Permanency Worker position may be for you!Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), a place to belong and make a difference!When you join the , you join a community of over 10,000 employees dedicated to serving and helping Oregonians achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice, and preserve dignity.Connect with ODHS and find a place to belong, build community and participate in shared learning. ERGs are employee-driven committees that support each other as well as the ODHS’ overall mission and vision.We are committed to building an antiracist and equitable agency. Equity is foundational to our role as a human services agency, and we are committed to integrating equity into all we do. has four points that explain the agency's goals related to equity, inclusion, and racial justice.We know that life is unpredictable and ODHS cares about keeping you well. Enjoy a work-life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, and including health, dental, vision and much more!Summary of Job DutiesAs an employee working within the , 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 that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.A Permanency Worker’s job duties include:Safety & Wellbeing: You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.Engagement: You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.Strategies: You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.Responsibilities: Your tasks include conducting home visits, writing reports, attending court hearings, and problem-solving child safety issues.Balancing Act: You balance the needs of the child and the family in compliance with legal requirements.Opportunities: You will build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about each family’s dynamics.What you need to qualifyA bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human service, orA bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services and either:One year of Human Services related experience, orCompletion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency, orAn associate degree and either:Two years of Human Services related experience, orOne year of Human Services related experience and related training, coursework, or certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency.Essential attributesWe are looking for candidates with experience:Experience providing services and resources to children and families while working or volunteering in a social services-related field.Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, time management, and organization.Experience working with diverse populations, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.Experience navigating and learning technology and various computer systems.Knowledge of disproportionality in communities and experience committing to conducting work in an equitable, anti-racist, accessible, and trauma-informed manner.Experience formulating documents or reports that include a conclusion and recommended action (examples: case plans, court reports, investigative reports), and demonstrated experience writing clearly and concisely with minimal spelling or grammar issues.Experience Successfully organizing, prioritizing workloads, and adapting to evolving circumstances and time constraints in order to meet deadlines.Please be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and the essential attributes within your application materials. These two areas will be used to determine which candidates will be selected to move forward in the process. Make sure to read the ‘How to Apply’ section for any other requirements.Working conditionsYour work will be conducted in offices, participant's homes, and other community sites.Occasional travel is required for attending meetings, trainings, and other case related activities.This position requires occasional overnight travel.Employee will work a professional work week; hours of work may fluctuate based on service needs. Occasional, compensated overtime may be required, including evening and weekend work.Employee will be on a rotating on-call schedule. The rotating on-call schedule will include evening or weekend work.You may interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may exhibit challenges in controlling their emotions.You may encounter stressful situations that will require quick decision-making skills.Application instructions & requirementsYour work history profile and resume are the perfect opportunity to highlight your interest in the position and demonstrate your skills, lived and/or work experience that shows you are an excellent candidate for the position.Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.Current State of Oregon employees: Apply via your employee Workday account.If you are not a current State of Oregon employee, view this .After you submit your application, you will have additional tasks to complete in Workday. Please continue to check your Workday account throughout the recruitment process.Additional requirementsFinalists for this position will be subject to a computerized criminal history and abuse check. Adverse background information will be reviewed and could result in withdrawal of a conditional job offer or termination of employment.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.A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.Helpful informationThis position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies.Have questions about Workday, and want some tips on understanding the state application process? Check out ourIf you need an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act, have questions or need assistance with the application process, please contact Amanda Alvarado via email at or call 541-709-8695. Please be sure to include the job requisition number.
