Permanency Worker

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are actively working to build an equitable agency with the 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 Permanency Worker position may be for you

Join our OUTSTANDING Astoria Child Welfare team and be a part of a rewarding journey, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in our vibrant community. Together, let's make a lasting difference

Please upload a resume with your application.

This position is located in Astoria and the physical location is 422 Gateway Ave, Astoria, OR 97103.

Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), a place to belong and make a difference

• When you join the , you join a community of over 10,000 employees dedicated to serving and helping Oregonians achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice, and preserve dignity.

• Connect with ODHS and find a place to belong, build community and participate in shared learning. ERGs are employee-driven committees that support each other as well as the ODHS’ overall mission and vision. 

• We are committed to building an antiracist and equitable agency. Equity is foundational to our role as a human services agency, and we are committed to integrating equity into all we do. has four points that explain the agency's goals related to equity, inclusion, and racial justice.

• We know that life is unpredictable and ODHS cares about keeping you well. Enjoy a work-life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, and including health, dental, vision and much more

Summary of Job Duties

As an employee working within the , 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 that will support children and young adults to be safer, healthier, experience less trauma and achieve a greater well-being.  

A Permanency Worker’s job duties include:

• Safety & Wellbeing: You play a crucial part in helping families achieve their goals while ensuring the safety and well-being of children.

• Engagement: You engage with children, families, resource parents, and caregivers in various ways to promote safety, permanency, and optimal outcomes for Oregon’s children and families.

• Strategies: You develop and implement multi-level strategies that leverage family strengths and address areas for improvement.

• Responsibilities: Your tasks include conducting home visits, writing reports, attending court hearings, and problem-solving child safety issues.

• Balancing Act: You balance the needs of the child and the family in compliance with legal requirements.

• Opportunities: You will build rapport with families, understand their uniqueness, and learn about each family’s dynamics.

What you need to qualify

• 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.

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.

Essential attributes

We are looking for candidates with experience:

• Experience presenting complex information to clients, co-workers, law enforcement and in court in a clear and concise manner.

• Experience establishing and maintaining professional casework relationships that engage and empower families.

• Experience learning and using technology, multiple databases, accurately enter data, and use word processing software.

• Experience adjusting communication style to your receiving audience, actively listen, and communicate with empathy.

• Experience problem-solving in collaboration with several parties to ensure child safety and compliance with state policies and procedures.

• Experience using trauma-informed practices that are inclusive of the child and family's language, race, and culture.

Please be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and the essential attributes within your application materials. These two areas will be used to determine which candidates will be selected to move forward in the process.  Make sure to read the ‘