Social Service Specialist 1 (Permanency Caseworker) in Newport

We are seeking multiple Permanency Caseworkers (Social Service Specialist 1) to join our Child Welfare team in Newport.

• Support Families: Play a critical role in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring child safety.
• Case Management: Work with diverse families, may include American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, collaborating with tribal entities and community partners.
• Engage Effectively: Interact with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers using a trauma-informed and antiracist approach to achieve safety and optimal outcomes.
• Develop Strategies: Create and implement strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas needing improvement.
• Handle Documentation and Legal Duties: Conduct home visits, complete legal documentation, attend court hearings, and address child safety issues.
• Balance Needs and Legal Requirements: Ensure a balance between the needs of the child and family while adhering to legal requirements.
• Build Rapport: Establish meaningful relationships with families to understand their dynamics and support their unique needs.

One year of Human Services related experience; OR Completion of coursework equivalent to certification consistent with Oregon Caseworker Competency; OR 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.

Demonstrates a high level of comfort in collaborating with others to make decisions, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered, and the best possible outcomes are achieved for children and families.

Experience in building collaborative relationships with community partners, agency staff, clients, and affected communities.

Experience conducting professional communications, both verbally and in writing, including case plans, court reports, assessments, and other related documents.

Experience working with diverse populations and implementing trauma-informed practices that address individual needs, prioritise safety, build trust, and ensure cultural sensitivity.

Experience with case management systems, document management software, and electronic communication tools.

Experience providing services and resources to children and families within social services settings.

• Work Locations: Offices, homes of participants, and community sites.
• Travel: Occasional travel for meetings, trainings, and other case related activities. This includes required occasional overnight travel.
• Hours: Regular work week with fluctuating hours; occasional overtime may be needed, including evenings and weekends.
• On-Call: You’ll be part of a rotating on-call schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
• Physical Requirements: Frequent physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and assisting children with car seats.

This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach that is essential to ensure a safe environment. You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions. Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and others.