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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! Looking for a rewarding administrative role where you can showcase your multitasking skills? Become an Office Specialist 2 in our support staff unit at the Child Welfare agency! Your commitment to ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all administrative tasks will directly contribute to the success of our program and the well-being of those we serve. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, we can’t wait to hear from you! Let’s work together and make a difference in the lives of those we serve!

Our Office Specialists are a key player in providing clerical support to caseworkers and supervisors at the Child Welfare agency.

We are seeking a Support Staff (Office Specialist 2) to join our Newport Child Welfare team.

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 Support Staff, you will:

• Provide clerical and administrative support at the front desk of a busy Child Welfare office, supporting clients in person and on the phone.
• Support caseworkers, supervisors, and program staff.
• Maintain case files, process records requests, and ensure compliance with documentation, records retention, and confidentiality requirements.
• Enter and update client, family, service, medical, educational, and provider information in electronic case management systems.
• Respond to phone and in-person inquiries, explain procedures, and assist clients, staff, and community partners.
• Coordinate referrals, background checks, records requests, and other documentation needed for casework activities.
• Research and verify parent, family, and tribal information; document findings and communicate results to caseworkers.
• Coordinate casework logistics, including transportation, equipment reservations, and communication with courts, correctional facilities, and community partners.

Minimum Qualifications

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

• Two years of general clerical experience that includes keyboarding, word processing, or other experience generating documents;

OR

• An associate degree in any field; 

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience performing front desk or reception duties, including assisting customers, providing information, and managing routine administrative tasks.
• Experience explaining rules, regulations, procedures, or program requirements to individuals, both verbally and in writing.
• Experience using Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, as well as other computer systems, to enter, process, verify, and maintain accurate information.
• Experience organizing and prioritizing work, managing competing tasks, and meeting deadlines.
• Experience communicating calmly and de-escalating individuals in stressful or emotionally charged situations.
• Experience working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and adapting communication to meet different needs.

Attention all candidates!

• Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.
• Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.
• The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.
• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

Working Conditions

• Your work schedule will be Monday - Friday from 8 am - 5 pm PT on-site in Newport, OR; hours may fluctuate based on service needs. Remote opportunities will not be available.
• Travel may be required for training purposes.
• Your 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.

Background Checks and Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• 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.
• Finalists must be cleared by the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.  
• 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.

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

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Heather Whelan. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-209469
• Email: Heather.S.Whelan@odhs.oregon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 503-979-8682