What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Adoptions Social Worker position at Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin?
Social Worker – Public Adoptions Program
Appleton or Fond du Lac, WI | Full‑Time | Hybrid After Training
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan is seeking a compassionate Social Worker to join our Public Adoptions Program. Help children with disabilities in foster care find safe, permanent, loving homes .
Our Social Workers provide case management, complete home studies, license adoptive families, and support children and parents throughout the adoption journey.
Position Highlights
-
40 hours/week, Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm w/ flexibility to meet client needs
-
Hybrid schedule available after 3 months (office home)
-
Meaningful work supporting children, families, and permanency outcomes
What You’ll Do
-
Assess youth and families
-
Develop and facilitate service plans
-
Conduct home studies & CANS assessments
-
Document case activity in eWiSACWIS within required timelines
-
Prepare court reports & represent LSS/DCFS professionally
-
Travel to homes to ensure child safety
-
Support families through placement to finalization
-
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams
-
Maintain knowledge of adoption laws, ethics, and best practices
-
Participate in trainings & provide peer consultation
-
Meet productivity expectations and adapt to client needs
Direct Service Approach
-
Promote client independence
-
Use trauma‑informed, person‑centered practices
-
Apply evidence‑based models
-
Maintain accurate time reporting
Perks & Benefits
-
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility support
-
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
-
Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
-
Mileage Reimbursement
-
Paid Time Off 10 Paid Holidays
-
403B Retirement Contribution
-
Annual Raises
-
Calm Wellness App – Premium Access
-
Early Earned Wage Access (UKG Wallet)
-
Employee Assistance Program
-
Service Awards & Recognition
What You'll Bring
-
Bachelor’s in Social Work or related human services field (required)
-
Master’s in Social Work (preferred)
-
2 years human services/social work experience (preferred)
-
Must hold or be eligible for social work certification/licensure (CSW, APSW, LISW, LCSW)
- Valid driver’s license & reliable transportation
-
Strong written and verbal communication
-
Clear, objective documentation
-
Ability to work with diverse populations
-
Understanding of mental health, development, and community resources
Travel Requirements
-
Daily travel within the region to visit homes and community locations
-
Occasional overnight travel may be required
-
Must be comfortable driving in varying weather and community environments
Ready to help children find the permanent, loving families they deserve? Apply today and be part of a life‑changing journey.
LSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).