Director of Transitional Foster Care

Catholic Charities West Michigan•Grand Rapids, MI

21h•Onsite

About The Position

This position is titled Director in accordance with the requirements of the funding source. Internally, based on the essential functions and scope of responsibility, the agency views this role as consistent with a Program Manager position. While the official job title remains “Director” for external and contractual purposes, internal structures, reporting, and performance expectations are aligned with that of a Program Manager role. The Director of Transitional Foster Care (TFC) performs overall management of the programmatic, administrative, financial, and operational systems related to the provision of care and services; provision of regular and timely reports to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) regarding operations, services, and finances; establishing a respective and supportive workplace environment; elevating any issues or concerns to ORR. This includes ensuring compliance with federal, state, and ORR regulations, supervising key personnel, managing program operations, and serving as the primary liaison with the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR). Administrative functions in developing and managing clinical and non-clinical program activities. Oversees the program operations and ensures programs are consistent with their purpose as well as the mission and goals of the Agency. Responsible for providing weekly, unannounced rounds in the classrooms and/or all areas where children congregate to ensure safety, wellbeing, and best practice of care in these areas. Catholic Charities West Michigan (CCWM) is a community-based agency providing programs in Western Michigan and offering a variety of services in family preservation, behavioral health, child welfare, and community outreach. CCWM is committed to ensuring a diverse workforce and a work environment whereby all staff are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. CCWM encourages persons of diverse backgrounds and faiths to apply for employment.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to work effectively on a multi-disciplinary treatment team.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Computer and typing skills sufficient to perform essential job functions.
Knowledge of the National Association of Social Work Code of Ethics, the NASW Standards for the practice of direct social work.
Knowledge of anti-racism work and commitment to follow through on anti-racism work within CCWM, particularly in Child Welfare.
Demonstrates an attitude of flexibility with staff.
Ability to have hard conversations with staff for accountability and growth purposes.
Ability to plan, supervise, review, and evaluate the work of supervisory and professional staff.
Ability to prepare and analyze reports, make presentations, and maintain records.
Ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.
Ability to relate to diverse populations and cultures while communicating with clients and the public in a courteous and effective manner.
Reliable transportation.
Valid driver’s license and good driving record with zero work restrictions.
Personal auto insurance as required by law with minimum bodily injury coverage limits of $250,000 per person/$500,000 per incident or $500,000 combined.
Willingness to work irregular hours including evenings, holidays, and weekends.
Regular, full-time attendance at the office (on-site role).
Successfully pass an annual TB test.
Document preference to receive or decline Hepatitis immunization.
Documentation of immunity to vaccine preventable diseases or the willingness to receive vaccination or seek an exemption.
Must submit to agency approved background checks.
A Master of Social Work (MSW) or an equivalent degree in education, psychology, sociology, or other relevant behavioral science degree; or Bachelor’s degree plus 5 years’ experience in child welfare administration, child protective services.
2 years of experience in program management; or 2 years as director of a licensed childcare program.
Must possess the administrator’s license for the care provider’s facility, if required by state licensing.
Valid active Michigan Child Welfare certification must be maintained for employment.
Valid CPR, First Aid, and AEC certified upon hire or within 60 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Spanish/English fluency.
Experience working with immigrant or refugee populations.
Familiarity with ORR systems and reporting platforms (e.g., GrantSolutions).

Responsibilities

Ensure compliance with ORR policies, Foundational Rule (45 CFR Part 410), state licensing requirements, and Cooperative Agreement.
Administrative functions in developing and managing clinical and non-clinical program activities.
Ensure proper staffing ratios and credentialing of all staff.
Manages, directs, and leads TFC personnel to include direct supervision of Lead Clinician and Lead Case Manager.
Facilitates and participates in weekly and resident meetings.
Programs weekly individual and team supervision to supervisory staff.
Cultivates a positive, respectful, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and team-centered work environment.
Oversee the case management team regarding the reunification process while ensuring compliance with ORR and state policy and procedure.
Ensures compliance with agency policies and procedures for staff performance evaluations, conference/training requests, timekeeping, and reimbursement requests.
Assists in the development and maintenance of the program's operating manual.
Develops, maintains, and enhances a positive working relationship with referral sources, state and federal agencies, volunteer and community agencies, employers, and individuals.
Participates in public relations for the program as appropriate.
Stays up to date on current trends and theories related to the program, while proactively recommending changes to agency policy and practice, as necessary to ensure contractual requirements are met.
Hires, on-boards, and trains staff effectively to ensure efficient operations.
Manages the intake and referral process.
Coordinate with ORR on emergency operations planning, monitoring visits, and corrective actions.
Attends local and national project team meetings to enhance the provision of the refugee services.
Oversees scheduling and staffing to ensure adequate coverage at all times.
Provides weekly, unannounced tours in the classrooms and/or all areas where children congregate to ensure safety, wellbeing, and best practice of care in these areas.
Stays abreast of all agencies, federal, and state regulatory requirements for social services.
Drives for Agency business.
Performs other special assignments at the supervisor’s request.