Generalist Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Oregon Department of Human Services

Madras (OR)

On-site

USD 55,000 - 85,000

Full time

12 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Generalist Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1) to safeguard children’s safety and well-being, conduct interviews, create safety and service plans, and document case notes. This permanent, full-time role requires collaboration with families, schools, and DHS partners.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in human services or related field, or equivalent combinations, with relevant experience.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field required or
Bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services with one year of Human Services experience or equivalent coursework
Associate degree with two years of Human Services related experience or one year with related training/certification

Responsibilities

Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases.
Create safety and service plans that connect families with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.
Prepare correct case documentation, including reports, assessments, safety plans, and notes.
Engage in child-safety meetings and collaborate with families, professionals, and community partners.
Testify in court hearings and initiate court action when needed.
Monitor safety and development of children in care and support transitions like returning home or adoption.

Skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Time management

Clear writing

MS Word

MS Excel

Culturally responsive practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field

Bachelor’s degree unrelated to Human Services + related experience/certification

Associate degree + relevant experience or training

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Position Title

Generalist Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Initial Posting Date

09/15/2026

Application Deadline

09/30/2026

Agency

Department of Human Services

Salary Range

$4,954 - $7,592

Position Type

Employee

Position Title

Generalist Caseworker (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.

Every day, Generalist Caseworkers step into moments that matter most. In this role you will ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's children, navigating difficult situations with dignity, respect, and support. If you’re seeking meaningful work that blends critical thinking, collaboration, and human connection, this work may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Summary Of Duties

Gather information through interviews and home observations to evaluate safety and risk in child abuse or neglect cases, taking protective action when necessary.
Create safety and service plans that reflect each family's needs and connect them with medical, mental health, parenting, and community resources.
Prepare correct case documentation, including reports, assessments, safety plans, and notes.
Engage in child‑safety meetings and collaborate effectively with families, professionals, and community partners.
Testify in court hearings and initiate court action when needed.
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 correct case records, including assessments, plans, and required documentation.
Prepare reports, make recommendations, and take part 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.

Essential Attributes

Experience working independently and in a team to complete tasks and projects.
Experience organizing work, managing time, and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
Experience writing clear, complete, and concise documents with minimal errors.
Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel to create, edit, and maintain documents or spreadsheets.
Experience working with people from varied backgrounds using culturally responsive 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 take part 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 meet situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.
Activities may include traversing stairs, move across uneven terrain, and helping 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-206450.