Foster Care Family Specialist
About The Position
The Family Specialist coordinates comprehensive case management for youth and families to support the safety, permanency, and well-being of youth in foster care. The role is based at the Capital Region Office in Albany, New York, and includes frequent travel, with travel of up to 50%. The usual schedule is 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; some evenings are required, and scheduling is flexible based on case needs. The specialist assesses family strengths and needs, helps develop and evaluate treatment and discharge plans, and coordinates services and resources. The role includes regular contact with families in their homes and community settings, collaboration with youth, families, and foster care treatment teams, and support for reunification and permanent connections. Accurate documentation, confidentiality, and required consent and information-release procedures are essential.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
- At least one year of direct experience working with at-risk youth and families, case management, child welfare, or trauma-informed care is preferred, particularly in home-based or community settings.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including variable daytime and evening hours and occasional on-call responsibilities.
- Valid driver’s license and driving record acceptable to agency standards.
- Reliable vehicle and ability to plan and coordinate transportation for home visits, appointments, and court-related obligations.
- Ability to engage and support individuals and families from economically and culturally diverse backgrounds.
- Understanding of equity and inclusive practices in service delivery.
- Excellent verbal and written communication, empathetic listening, and ability to prepare accurate, objective, timely documentation.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based documentation systems.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree (MSW, MHC, MFT, or related) is strongly preferred; it may be required for clinical or supervisory roles.
- Direct experience working with at-risk youth and families, case management, child welfare, or trauma-informed care, preferably in a home-based or community setting.
Responsibilities
- Assess family strengths and needs, identify problem areas, and use treatment approaches and resources to support growth and change.
- Participate in developing, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive treatment and discharge plans.
- Develop alternative placements or permanency resources for youth who may not return to their families.
- Complete a comprehensive discharge summary at least eight weeks before discharge.
- Provide case management, including arranging counseling as needed and ensuring children receive required medical and dental examinations.
- Track and monitor services and complete documentation in a timely and comprehensive manner.
- Follow confidentiality standards and obtain parental consent and necessary releases of information.
- Conduct casework contacts with families as needed and at least twice a month, in homes and community settings, focused on treatment goals.
- Build effective, caring relationships with youth and families and help maintain safe, secure environments for children.
- Connect youth and families with foster care treatment teams through telephone and in-person contacts, family conferences, and comprehensive treatment reviews.
- Attend treatment review meetings.
- Support youth reunification with family, community, and school by establishing permanent supports and resources, which may include mentors, after-school recreational and job opportunities, and relapse prevention programs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
