The Foster Care Child Welfare Specialist involves providing casework services to children and families involved with the foster care system and their foster families. They will provide reunification services and permanency planning to assigned clients

Job Function:In this position a Child Welfare Specialist would provide direct case management services to assigned clients and families, including assessments, service plan development and implementation, court representation and thorough documentation of services. They must have the ability to thoroughly assess client needs and develop effective interventions which utilize client strengths and input. They provide counseling, mentoring and life skills training, as needed. They monitor the safety and well-being of assigned clients through monthly in-home contacts. They assure all medical, educational and clinical needs are met of all assigned clients. The CWS provides crisis management services in order to increase stability and personal functioning. They consult with treatment team members, as well as other involved parties, in order to plan, provide and monitor effective treatment and service provision.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology or related field is required
• 2 or more years experience in child welfare preferred
• Experience or other training preparing an individual to work with families and youth involved with DCFS
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Maturity and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences in clients, staff, foster parents and families served
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work within a treatment team
• Ability to handle job related manners in a professional, diplomatic and confidential manner
• Thorough knowledge of community resources and services
• Ability to organize and execute responsibilities in an independent manner
• Hearing and speaking ability which allows for effective oral communication of information
• Ability to physically transport self and clients to various locations.
• Physical and emotional stamina to effectively handle job related issues and stressBenefits:
• PTO (paid-time-off) accrual 3 weeks first year (full-time)
• 10 paid holidays
• Sick Leave accrual 12 days per year (full-time)
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401K with company match
• Company paid life insurance, STD and LTD
• Supplemental life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Program