Foster Care Family Specialist

Together for Youth•Buffalo, NY

2d•$23 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Family Specialist coordinates comprehensive case management plans for youth and families to promote the safety, permanency, and well-being of youth in foster care. The role is based at the Buffalo office and has a flexible schedule, generally 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some evenings and occasional on-call responsibilities depending on case needs. Travel is up to 25%, and frequent travel is necessary. The position involves assessing family strengths and needs, coordinating treatment and discharge planning, connecting youth and families with services and resources, and maintaining complete and timely case documentation. The Specialist works with families in home and community settings, collaborates with foster care treatment teams, and supports reunification through permanent supports and community resources.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
Ability to work a flexible schedule with variable daytime and evening hours and occasional on-call responsibilities.
Valid driver’s license with a driving record acceptable to agency standards.
Access to a reliable vehicle and ability to travel frequently.
Ability to plan and coordinate transportation for home visits, appointments, and court-related obligations efficiently and on time.
Ability to engage and support individuals and families from economically and culturally diverse backgrounds.
Excellent communication skills, including professional verbal communication, empathetic listening, and accurate, objective, timely written documentation.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based documentation systems.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree (MSW, MHC, MFT, or related); may be required for clinical or supervisory roles.
One year of 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.
Demonstrated understanding of equity and inclusive practices in service delivery.

Responsibilities

Assess family strengths and needs, identify problem areas, and use treatment modalities and resources to support growth and change.
Participate in developing, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive treatment and discharge plans.
Develop alternative placement 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 ensuring counseling sessions are scheduled as needed and children receive required medical and dental examinations.
Track and monitor services and complete documentation in a timely and comprehensive manner.
Ensure compliance with confidentiality standards, parental consent requirements, and necessary releases of information.
Conduct casework contacts with families at least twice a month, as needed, in homes and community settings, with a focus on treatment goals.
Engage youth and families through effective, caring relationships.
Ensure children are maintained in safe, secure environments.
Connect youth and families with foster care treatment teams through telephone and face-to-face contacts, family conferences, and comprehensive treatment reviews.
Attend treatment review meetings.
Support reunification with family, community, and school by implementing permanent supports and resources, including mentors, after-school recreational and job opportunities, and relapse prevention programs.