Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1

Initial Posting Date:
10/22/2026
Application Deadline:
10/29/2026
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$4,954.00 - $7,592.00 USD Monthly
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1
Job Description:
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!
Step into a transformative role where your passion for the well-being of children and your ability to connect with families come together to create lasting change. Become a catalyst for positive impact in the lives of Oregon’s children and their loved ones. Are you ready to unlock the potential within every family—and make a real difference?
We are currently seeking a Permanency Caseworker (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our team based at the Midtown Office. Please note the following information regarding work location:
1. The permanent assigned location for the Midtown Office is 815 NE Davis Street in Portland.
2. This building is currently inaccessible and is expected to remain unavailable for several months.
3. Until the permanent site reopens, all Midtown staff, including this position, will report to the temporary Midtown location at 6035 NE 78th Court in Portland.
Summary of Duties
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:
Support families by playing a critical role in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
Provide case management by working with diverse families, including American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
Engage effectively by interacting with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
Developing strategies by creating and implementing strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
Handling documentation and legal duties by conducting home visits, completing legal documentation, attending court hearings, and addressing child safety issues.
Balancing needs and legal requirements by ensuring a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
Building rapport by establishing meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and supporting their unique needs.
Minimum Qualifications
Per 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.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position. And
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.
Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with:
Experience screening and assessing clients’ needs to determine appropriate community and culturally responsive resources, as well as partnering agency programs or services.
Experience preparing and maintaining thorough records, such as reports, narratives, and observations.
Demonstrated understanding of working with diverse populations.
Demonstrated experience to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. This includes experience in writing clearly and concisely using plain language appropriate for diverse audiences, conveying information with clarity, and tailoring communication style to suit d