Permanency Assistant

United States Electric Co.; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 49,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Children and Family Services in Springfield, IL is seeking a Permanency Assistant to support child welfare specialists in arranging placements and transporting children to hearings, exams, and appointments.

The role requires strong organizational and communication skills, observation of children's wellbeing, and collaboration with caseworkers to ensure safety and stability for youth.

Qualifications

• Requires completion of two years of college and one year of experience OR three years of experience working with culturally disadvantaged persons in a social service program.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Permanency Assistant to Child Welfare Specialists.
• Support efforts to move youth to appropriate Permanency options.
• Observe children and report to the caseworker on any unusual behavior or health concerns.
• Attend and provide input at team meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of duties.

Skills

Organizational skills

Strong communication

Education

Two years of college

Three years of experience with culturally disadvantaged persons

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58716
Opening Date: 09/15/2026
Closing Date: 09/29/2026
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: 1124 N Walnut St, Springfield, Illinois, 62702
Work County: Sangamon

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 you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible 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

Minimum Qualifications

Requires any combination of education and experience which provides knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to either completion of two years of college and one year of experience OR three years of experience working with culturally disadvantaged persons in a social service program

Conditions of Employment

• Requires a valid driver’s license, daily access to an automobile, and proof of vehicle insurance.
• Requires ability to pass a background check.
• Requires physical, visual, and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties.
• The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

DCFS is deeply committed to the welfare and protection of children. Our goal is to protect children by strengthening and supporting families. In every effort, from receiving hotline calls to reaching family reunification or foster care and adoption, children and families are our focus.

As a State of Illinois Employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:

• Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
• 12 Paid Sick Days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
• 10-25 Days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
  • Personal, Sick, & Vacation rates modified for 12-hour & part-time work schedules (as applicable)
• 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
• Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
• 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
• Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
• Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
• GI Bill® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
• 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions

This position DOES NOT contain “Specialized Skills” (as that term is used in CBAs).