Permanency Assistant

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 49,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking a Permanency Assistant in Decatur to support placement arrangements for children and transport to placements, court hearings, and medical appointments. This full-time, salaried role requires strong organizational and communication skills and a dedication to child safety and stability.

The position works in office-based settings with standard hours, Monday through Friday, and offers competitive compensation and benefits.

Responsibilities

• Serves as Permanency Assistant to Child Welfare Specialists
• Provides support to Child Welfare Specialist efforts to move youth to appropriate Permanency options
• Provides support and feedback to the assigned worker regarding observation of child during a child parent visitation when applicable
• Observes children and reports to the caseworker and/or supervisor any unusual behavior relating to the mental, social adjustment, and overall health of children
• Attends and provides input into team meetings
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above

Job description

Working Title: Permanency Assistant - Decatur

• Job Requisition ID: 58448
• Opening Date: 09/01/2026
• Closing Date: 09/16/2026
• Agency: Department of Children and Family Services
• Class Title: CHILD DEVELOPMENT AIDE - 07184
• Skill Option: None
• Bilingual Option: None
• Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $4,407/mo; Full Salary Range $4,407/mo - $5,879/mo
• Job Type: Salaried
• Category: Full Time
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Bargaining Unit Code: RC028 Paraprofessional Human Services Employees, AFSCME
• Work Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM
• Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: Not available, fully in office
• Headquarter Location: Decatur - 2920 N Oakland Ave
• Work County: Macon
• Supervisor: Amy Schroeder
• Agency Contact: [e-mail] 217-524-0275 [e-mail]
• This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether youre helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, youre part of something biggersomething that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career youre looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your scheduleflexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as Permanency Assistant. Under general supervision, this position will provide assistance in making arrangements of placements for children. The position will drive to transport children to and from placements, as well as for court hearings, health exams, medical appointments, etc. The position will also provide assistance with program activities for children and will observe children and report to the caseworker and/or supervisor any unusual behavior relating to the mental, social adjustment, and overall health of children. This position provides a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about children and interested in playing a supporting role in ensuring the safety and stability of children and youth. DCFS offers a competitive compensation plan, excellent benefits, and a pension program. The ideal candidate for this position will have excellent organizational skills and strong communication skills. We invite you to join our innovative team to help make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families of Illinois.

Essential Functions

• Serves as Permanency Assistant to Child Welfare Specialists
• Provides support to Child Welfare Specialist efforts to move youth to appropriate Permanency options
• Provides support and feedback to the assigned worker regarding observation of child during a child parent visitation when applicable
• Observes children and reports to the caseworker and/or supervisor any unusual behavior relating to the mental, social adjustment, and overall health of children
• Attends and provides input into team meetings
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above