Family Coach (Human Services Case Manager)

As a Family Coach (Human Services Case Manager) at the Oregon Department of Human Services, you will be responsible for providing support and resources to families aiming to overcome significant barriers to self-sufficiency. This includes conducting eligibility assessments for our Self-Sufficiency Program, assisting with safety planning for those facing domestic violence, and facilitating access to community resources. Your role is crucial in helping individuals and families move forward, ensuring they feel supported and understood throughout the process.

To qualify as a Family Coach (Human Services Case Manager) at the Oregon Department of Human Services, you need either a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences, Social Sciences, or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree in any field accompanied by one year of relevant human services experience. Alternatively, an associate degree combined with two years of experience in human services is also acceptable. Importantly, real-world experience with diverse populations and the ability to establish meaningful connections are highly valued in this position.

The salary range for a Family Coach (Human Services Case Manager) at the Oregon Department of Human Services falls between $4,715 to $6,866 per month. This competitive salary reflects the importance of your role in supporting families in need across Oregon and comes with annual increases until reaching the top of the scale, alongside an excellent benefits package.

Essential attributes for a Family Coach at the Oregon Department of Human Services include the ability to initiate and maintain strong relationships with clients, capacity for supporting families with necessary tools and resources, and experience working with diverse populations. Equally important are effective communication skills to establish boundaries and set realistic goals, all while approaching your work through a trauma-informed lens to ensure compassionate care.

As a Family Coach (Human Services Case Manager) with the Oregon Department of Human Services, you can expect a robust benefits package that includes health insurance, cost of living adjustments, and annual salary increases. Furthermore, you may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, along with opportunities to connect with Employee Resource Groups that promote shared learning and community support. Your role is vital, and we provide the necessary support for your well-being.

When managing multiple cases as a Family Coach, I prioritize by assessing urgency based on client needs, deadlines for support services, and the overall impact on families’ welfare. I use organizational tools to track progress and ensure timely follow-ups, allowing me to provide focused attention to each family while being adaptable to changing situations.

In my previous role, I encountered a family reluctant to engage due to past negative experiences with services. I approached the situation with empathy, actively listening to their concerns and building trust over several meetings. By providing continuous support and ensuring open communication, we eventually identified their barriers together, leading to a more collaborative relationship.

In assisting families experiencing domestic violence, I prioritize a trauma-informed approach. I focus on safety planning, offering resources that empower individuals to make choices while ensuring their immediate needs are met. I actively listen, respect their autonomy, and connect them with counseling and legal resources to navigate their situations safely.

Maintaining professionalism requires a balance of compassion and boundaries. I remind myself to focus on the client's needs while managing my emotional responses. Active listening and validating their feelings are essential, as is using a trauma-informed approach that recognizes their experiences, creating a safe environment for open communication.

If a client does not follow through on agreed actions, I would first reach out to understand their situation better. This might involve reassessing their barriers, providing additional support, and exploring their motivations and readiness for change. Building a collaborative plan for next steps is vital to encourage their engagement without applying undue pressure.

Building rapport starts with genuine engagement. I utilize active listening, show empathy, and share relatable experiences to establish a connection. My approach also includes being consistent and reliable, which allows clients to feel safe and valued, further enhancing their trust in me as their Family Coach.

I keep myself informed about community resources through regular networking with local organizations and attending workshops or resource fairs. I also subscribe to newsletters from agencies that support families, ensuring I stay updated on the latest services available to assist my clients effectively.

To handle conflict between clients at a community event, I would intervene promptly to de-escalate the situation. I would separate the individuals if necessary, allowing for private discussions to understand each party's perspective. My aim would be to facilitate a respectful dialogue that encourages resolution and emphasizes empathy.

Working with diverse populations requires cultural competence and sensitivity. I approach each situation with an open mind, educate myself about different cultural backgrounds, and actively listen to clients’ unique needs. By respecting their values and experiences, I can tailor my support to align with their specific contexts.

I want to work as a Family Coach at the Oregon Department of Human Services because I am passionate about supporting families in overcoming obstacles to self-sufficiency. I align with the agency's commitment to equity and diversity, and I believe that my skills and experiences can contribute positively to the organization and the communities we serve.