Initial Posting Date: 09/10/2024 Application Deadline: 09/24/2024 Agency: Department of Human Services Salary Range: $4,536 - $6,952 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) 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! Build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn how each family functions. Join us in making a difference in the lives of children and families in need of support and resources. You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual in English and Spanish, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. Summary of Duties As a Permanency Worker, you will: * Play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children. * Engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon's children and families. * Develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement. * Conduct home visits, write reports, attend court hearings, and problem-solve child safety issues. * Balance the needs of the child and the family in compliance with legal requirements. * Build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about each family's dynamics. 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. Essential Attributes We are looking for candidates with: * Knowledge, training, or education in child development and the impact of parent behaviors and decisions. * Experience formulating documents or reports that include a conclusion and recommended action. * Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines. * Experience problem-solving in collaboration with several parties to ensure child safety and compliance with state policies. * Experience engaging with diverse communities to understand their needs and perspectives, ensuring inclusive and equitable approaches. Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in English and Spanish. Attention all candidates! Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history. Working Conditions * Your work will take place in the office and community. * You will work a professional work week where the hours of work fluctuate on a daily and weekly basis to meet service needs. Occasional compensated overtime will be required, including evening and weekend work. * You will have frequent local travel for the purpose of attending meetings, trainings and working on case-related activities. Occasionally, you will have overnight travel. * You will be on a rotating on-call schedule. The rotating on-call schedule will include evening or weekend work. The on-call schedule is sent out in advance to support adequate planning. * 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 stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety of yourself and others. Background Checks and Requirements * A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position. * 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. * Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check. * 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. 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. Veterans' Preference * Veterans' preference information. * How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans' preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application. 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 We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions. * The recruiter for this position is Ashlee Parpart. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-162155. * Email: Ashlee.Parpart@odhs.oregon.gov * Phone (call or text): 503-507-2392