Child and Family Services Specialist: Relative/Kinship Care Support - Beatrice

State of Nebraska • Beatrice, NE

124d • $21,836 - $25,607

About The Position

You have the passion; we have the opportunities – let’s make a difference for Nebraskans! The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is looking to hire dedicated and caring individuals for our Child and Family Services Specialist/Trainee Relative/Kinship role. In this position, you will assess and support relative/kinship foster care providers through the completion of home studies, case management, and ongoing family support using an evidence-based model. This role includes in-home visits, coordination of resources, and requires flexible scheduling, including participation in a rotating on-call schedule.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, sociology, counseling, human development, mental health care, education, criminal justice, or other closely related area.
• Consideration will be given to applicants who are enrolled in the final semester of their bachelor’s degree.
• Must be available for evening/weekend hours as needed.
• Valid Driver's license is required.
• Frequent travel required; state vehicle may be provided based on availability.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in Child and Family Services, case management, or child placing agencies.
• Familiarity with NFOCUS and Microsoft Office suite.
• One year of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments and home studies for relative/kinship placements, including emergency approvals.
• Deliver referrals, resources, and support to relative/kinship caregivers and their families.
• Identify and address challenges to placement stability.
• Ensure compliance with approval and licensing standards and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
• Conduct monthly in-person visits with caregivers and youth.
• Support families through phone check-ins, team meetings, court hearings, and transportation assistance.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to meet the needs of children and families.
• Utilize platforms such as Outlook, Word, Excel, WebEx, and NFOCUS (training provided).
• Facilitate training sessions, support groups, and events for kinship families.
• Lead meetings with case team members to plan and coordinate services.
• Fulfill on-call responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees