Permanency Worker; Social Service Specialist

Position Title

Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist
1)

08/24/2026

09/01/2026

Department of Human Services

$4,954 - $7,592

Employee

Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist
1)

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.

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.

• 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.
• 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.

• 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.

• Experience working successfully independently and with a team.
• Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.
• Experience writing clearly, thoroughly, and concisely with minimal spelling or grammar issues.
• Experience working well with people from a wide variety of backgrounds through a culturally competent lens.
• Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Your work will take place in the community and in the ODHS office.
• You will work a professional work week where the hours of work fluctuate on a daily and weekly basis to meet service needs. Occasionally compensated overtime will be required, including evening and weekend work.
• You will have frequent local travel. Occasional travel may be hours away. On rare occasions, you will have overnight travel. The purpose of travel will be to transport children and connect with family members.
• You will interact with a wide range of people, including some who have experienced trauma and may exhibit challenges in controlling their emotions.
• You may encounter situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety of yourself and others.

Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like to be considered are included in your application materials.
  
  Note:
  
  Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.
• The State of Oregon does not…