Foster Care Case Manager

Bethany Christian Services USA • Kalamazoo, MI

13d • $23 - $25

About The Position

Bethany Christian Services is a faith-rooted organization that works to ensure children are safe, loved, and connected through family. The Foster Care Case Manager is part of a foster parent's Bethany team, supporting foster parents and children in their care. The role trains and equips foster parents and helps connect them with community resources to meet children's needs.

The Case Manager provides case management services to children in foster care, coordinates treatment plans and provider communication, supports foster parents, and assesses placement safety and appropriateness. The position also involves maintaining accurate records, complying with organizational, Department of Child Services, and court requirements, investigating child abuse and neglect, and participating in court proceedings and an on-call schedule as needed. The role may be based out of Kalamazoo or Benton Harbor.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college.
• At least one year of prior case management experience in child and family services.
• Hold or be willing to obtain state certifications as required by the program.
• Broad knowledge of basic human-service principles, concepts, and methodologies acquired through a bachelor’s-level degree.
• Understanding of the effects of separation and loss, neglect, and physical and sexual abuse on a child.
• Knowledge of state, community, and agency resources.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated clinical, therapeutic, and crisis intervention skills.
• Ability to work independently and exercise a high level of confidentiality.
• Adhere to agency and departmental safety procedures, report unsafe practices, equipment, or environments, and take an active role in correcting them through proper notification channels.
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions, including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license with at least three years of driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany.
• Pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage.
• Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries.
• Subscribe to and integrate the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.

Responsibilities

• Provide case management services to children in foster care.
• Attend and testify at court hearings as necessary.
• Maintain effective contact with attorneys, therapists, CASA workers, and other providers.
• Maintain current and accurate client records, case files, record notes, and medical records.
• Comply with reporting guidelines established by the organization, Department of Child Services (DCS), and the court, and submit required reports in a timely manner.
• Provide services that empower clients and adhere to the organization’s standards of ethical practice.
• Coordinate and facilitate completion of the treatment plan, maintain contact with providers, and attend child and family team meetings.
• Meet with foster parents at least monthly to assist with and ensure appropriate care for foster children.
• Investigate child abuse and neglect in accordance with program expectations and guidelines.
• Recommend in a timely manner whether parental rights should be terminated, ensuring the child’s safety.
• Participate in the on-call system and schedule as necessary.
• Assess the safety and appropriateness of placements on an ongoing basis using child welfare principles and social work best practices.
• Attend weekly meetings with the supervisor to consult on cases and review case plans and direction.
• Partner with the Licensing and Placement Specialist regarding foster parent complaints.
• Stay current on community resources and refer foster families for support as needed.
• Stay current on agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements related to social services.
• Participate in Bethany-sponsored events when required or requested.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Access to training, professional development, and career growth opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match eligibility.
• Generous time off, including 11 paid holidays, PTO YourWay, paid parental leave, and separate sick and paid absence banks.
• Education reimbursement for those who qualify.
• Comprehensive employee assistance and wellness program.
• Employer-paid long-term disability and group term life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level