Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Oregon Department of Human Services; Medford (OR); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee resource groups

Cost of living adjustments

Salary progressions

Comprehensive benefits

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) to monitor safety and well‑being of children in care and support transitions such as returning home or adoption.

The role involves coordinating services, conducting visits, keeping records, and collaborating with families and partners to promote stability and permanency. A bachelor’s degree in human services or related field is required.

Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field.
• One year of Human Services experience or coursework equivalent to Oregon Caseworker Competency.
• Completion of coursework equivalent to certification.
• Pursuant to ORS 419B.021, certain positions require specific education.

Responsibilities

• Monitor safety, well-being, and development of children in care.
• Facilitate and observe visits; provide coaching and arrange transportation.
• Maintain regular contact with families; develop and update safety plans.
• Coordinate services, referrals, and track progress for children and families.
• Keep case records and prepare reports for court hearings and reviews.
• Collaborate with caregivers, schools, and service providers to support permanency.

Education

Bachelor's degree in human services

Bachelor's degree related to human services

Associates degree with related experience

Oregon Caseworker Competency coursework

Valid driver’s license

Job description

Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1)

Salary Range: 4954.00-7592.00

Application Deadline: 10/11/2026

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! Help shape brighter, more secure futures for children in Oregon.

Summary of Duties

• 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 within timelines.
• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• 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.
• Pursuant to ORS 419B.021, states that any position engaged in child protective investigations and/or custody determinations must meet the educational requirements. Experience alone will not meet the minimum qualifications for those positions.
• *Degree must be completed, not in progress.

Essential Attributes

• Experience managing workload with consistent follow-through.
• Experience reviewing work for completeness, accuracy, and alignment with policy.
• Experience engaging children and families to support safety, stability, and well‑being.
• Experience applying critical thinking to analyze issues and develop solutions.
• Experience of collaborating with service providers, community partners, and internal teams.
• Experience communicating with respect, cultural awareness, and trauma‑informed practices.

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 participate 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 encounter situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others. Activities may include traversing stairs, moving across uneven terrain, and assisting 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

Job Requisition Number: REQ-204929