Search Specialist (Office Specialist 2), Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred, Part-Time

Initial Posting Date:

10/02/2025

Application Deadline:

10/09/2025

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

$3,429 - $4,622

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Search Specialist (Office Specialist 2), Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred, Part-Time

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.

You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position.  If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply!  We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. 

Opportunity Awaits!

Ready to make an impact?  Dive into the world of clerical support where your attention to detail helps caseworkers and fosters a brighter future for families!

Summary Of Duties

As a Search Specialist, you will:

• Complete extensive searching for relatives for children placed into care or upon caseworker request to include data entry into the agency’s data information system (ORKIDS).
• Review and ensure forms are completed accurately. 
• Conduct ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) searches as requested by caseworkers in accordance with ICWA policy.  This would include producing and mailing ICWA letters, tracking timelines and logging information.
• Conduct and input research and search data for absent parents and document efforts to meet case and court requirements.
• Prepare affidavits at the completion of unsuccessful searches as necessary.

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 handling confidential information (I.e., medical records, personal information, employment information, etc). 
• Experience communicating complex information verbally and in writing with diverse education, language and cultural backgrounds through different platforms. (I.e. Cell phone, email, in person, Microsoft teams).
• Experience using computers to process, enter and verify detailed data with accuracy and efficiency. 
• Experience using time management, and prioritization skills to meet mandated deadlines with competing priorities. 

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

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 make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. 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. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• 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

• This position will work Part-Time Monday through Friday, in office.  Additional hour details to be discussed with the hiring manager.
• Occasional travel is required for attending meetings, trainings, and dependent on business needs.
• This position has long periods of sitting at a computer terminal.  As part of your job with Child Welfare you are expected to work competently within the agency’s electronic information system (ORKIDS). 
• In this role you will need proficiency with Outlook email system and Microsoft programs are essential.  You may be required to develop competencies in other software applications, depending on your job assignment. 
• In this role, you will encounter sensitive material related to trauma, abuse, substance use, and crisis situations.  Our team prioritizes a trauma-informed approach, creating a safe environment for both clients and staff. 
• You will interact with a diverse range of individuals, including those who have experienced trauma and may struggle with emotional regulation.  This position may involve handling stressful situations that demand rapid decision-making skills. 

Background Checks and Requirements

• 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.
• 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.
• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position. 
• HB3187: 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.

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’ Preference:

• Veterans’ Preference Information.

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

General Information

• This is a permanent, part-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 Rochelle Peters. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.
• Email: Rochelle.m.peters@odhs.oregon.gov