Initial Posting Date:
07/24/2023
Application Deadline:
08/07/2023
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$4,259 - $6,528
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Permanency Worker (Social Service Specialist 1) - Bilingual English/Spanish Candidates Preferred
Job Description:
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are actively working to build an equitable agency with the
Equity North Star
as our guide toward our vision of an agency free of racism, discrimination and bias. We believe that teams in which everyone can show up as their full authentic self are key to creating a thriving workforce that can better serve communities. We welcome members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to apply.
Imagine having an opportunity to build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about how each family functions. As a permanency worker, you will have an opportunity to make a positive impact on Oregonians in need of support and resources. If you are looking to make a difference, this position may be for you!
We are seeking a permanency worker (social service specialist 1) to join our Child Welfare team in North Bend (on the Oregon coast). Bilingual (English/Spanish) candidates are preferred, but bilingual skills are not required.
Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), A place to belong and make a difference!
What you need to qualify:
A bachelor’s degree in human services or a field related to human services.
OR
A bachelor’s degree unrelated to human services, and either:
1) One year of human services-related experience, OR
2) Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with
Oregon caseworker competency
.
OR
An associate degree and either:
1) Two years of human services-related experience, OR
2) One year of human services-related experience and related training, coursework or certification consistent with
Oregon caseworker competency
.
A valid driver license and acceptable driving record are necessary for this position.
Essential attributes:
We are looking for candidates with:
-
Experience using sound judgement to come up with successful solutions to problems.
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The ability to be flexible and adapt to changing environments and priorities.
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Experience using a strength-based perspective when working with others who exhibit challenges.
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Knowledge, training, or education surrounding mental health and/or trauma.
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A demonstrated commitment to equity and antiracism work.
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The demonstrated ability to write clearly, concisely, and thoroughly with minimal spelling or grammar issues.
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Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish will receive preference.
Please be sure to clearly describe how you meet these attributes within your application materials. These attributes will be used to determine which candidates will be selected to move forward in the process. Make sure to read the ‘How to Apply’ section for any other requirements.
Your duties at a glance:
As an employee working within the
Child Welfare Program
, you will have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Oregon’s most vulnerable children and families. Your dedication will help us achieve the Child Welfare
Vision for Transformation
that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.
As a permanency worker, you will be:
-
Monitoring the safety and wellbeing of youth through ongoing contact with them and their parents (biological and resource parents).
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Assessing the developmental progress and treatment needs of youth.
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Explaining planned changes to youth and preparing them for transitions, including returns home, guardianships, and adoptions.
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Facilitating and observing family time with youth, parents, and other family members.
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Referring parents and children to service providers.
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Making transportation arrangements for family time (transporting youth).
-
Working with families to develop safety and treatment plans.
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Providing medical and educational advocacy for youth.
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Providing information to parents about court hearings, medical visits, mental health visits, etc.
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Maintaining complete and accurate case files, records, and documents.
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Attending court hearings, preparing court reports, and making case presentations.
-
Watch
this video about permanency work
to learn more.
Working conditions:
-
Work occurs in the office and in the field, including in client homes (which may be unsanitary and/or unsafe).
-
Work requires the ability to prioritize work related to child safety and respond quickly to emergency situations.
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This position requires working a flexible schedule – working hours may be adjusted to provide planned services.
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Occasional paid overtime on nights and weekends may be required.
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You may interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma, exhibit challenges in controlling their anger, or other unexpected emotions impacted by drug use, cognitive impairments, or other factors.
How to apply:
Your work history profile, cover letter, and resume are the perfect opportunity to highlight your interest in the position and showcase your skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the position.
-
Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile.
Note: Your resume may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
-
A cover letter is not required for this application. However, you may attach one if you wish. This may help the manager understand better how you possess the essential attributes.
-
Current state of Oregon employees: Apply via your employee Workday account.
-
If you are not a current State of Oregon employee: view this
application instructional video
.
-
After you submit your application, you will have additional tasks to complete in Workday. Please continue to check your Workday account throughout the duration of the recruitment process.
Additional Requirements:
-
Finalists for this position will be subject to a computerized criminal history and abuse check. Adverse background information will be reviewed and could result in withdrawal of a conditional job offer or termination of employment.
-
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.
Helpful information: