Position Summary

The Foster Care Specialist position is responsible for working within the child welfare arena to find permanency for children residing in foster care. This person will work with children, caregivers, birth parents, the Courts, and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to collaborate and create a permanency goal most appropriate for each child.

Are you passionate about discovering new ways to help empower people and make a difference in their lives?

If you've got what it takes to support us in our mission to provide help and create hope through innovative, collaborative, and diverse programs within the community, then we've got the right opportunity for you.

Essentials Duties and Responsibilities

• Serves a caseload of foster children, their birth families, and their licensed or unlicensed caregivers across Michigan.
• Provides or refers the children and their birth families to services based on a structured assessment of the children and their birth family.
• Maintains regular contacts.
• Coordinates services with staff and families.
• Participates in on-call placements and emergency services.
• Drives and transports as needed.

Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the Michigan courts or possesses the ability to successfully interact with court personnel and appointed attorneys.
• Ability to utilize the DHHS computer systems and other computer systems required by contract.
• Knowledge and ability of strong conflict resolution skills and ability to work with difficult individuals.
• Knowledge and ability of strong engagement skills, coping skills and patience for difficult situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to relate to diverse populations and cultures while communicating with clients and the public in a courteous and effective manner.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.

Recommended Employment Qualifications

Education:

A Bachelor's Degree in social Work, sociology, psychology or a human service related area as specified by MSA and BCAL rules.

Experience:

A minimum of three years of related experience in human services is required. Child Welfare experience preferred.