Foster Care Licensing Specialist

JENDA FAMILY SERVICES LLC•Lincoln, NE

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Foster Care Intake Coordinator & Licensing Specialist is a dual-role position that supports both the placement of children into foster homes and the licensing and renewal of foster families. This position plays a critical role in ensuring children are matched with safe, stable, and nurturing homes, while also maintaining compliance with Nebraska state licensing regulations. This position contributes to a strong network of foster families by facilitating quality placements, overseeing respite care coordination, and providing guidance throughout the licensing process. The role involves intake and placement coordination, licensing and compliance, and collaboration and problem-solving.

Requirements

Strong understanding of Nebraska DHHS regulations regarding foster care and licensing.
Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and critical thinking skills.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel as needed for home visits, training, and placement needs.
Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, or a closely related field (required).
Minimum of two years of experience in child welfare, foster care, or related field.

Responsibilities

Receive and process child placement referrals from the Department of Health and Human Services and Juvenile Probation.
Match children with appropriate licensed foster homes based on child-specific needs, foster parent capacity, availability, and compatibility.
Coordinate placement logistics, including transportation, services, support, and communication with involved parties.
Provide foster parents with comprehensive information about the child and offer support during the intake transition.
Maintain accurate and timely records of placements and ensure all documentation is compliant with agency and state policies.
Organize and coordinate respite care for youth and foster parents by collaborating with foster parents, foster care specialists, respite providers, and licensing staff.
Guide prospective foster families throughout the licensing process, including background checks, training, home studies, updates, and renewals.
Conduct home visits and assessments to ensure ongoing compliance with Nebraska’s foster care licensing standards.
Maintain detailed and current licensing records for all certified foster homes.
Complete annual re-licensure reviews and monitor foster home performance and safety.
Assign kinship and relative home studies to licensing specialists, track due dates, and report progress to relevant staff and supervisors.
Collaborate with caseworkers, state agencies, internal staff and administration to ensure seamless coordination of placements and licensing.
Remain current on state licensing regulations, provider contracts, and agency policies.
Assist in resolving licensing concerns and placement challenges promptly with professionalism and a solutions-focused mindset.
Support recruitment and retention of foster families through responsive communication and a commitment to quality care.