Foster Care Specialist

Catholic Charities West Michigan • Benton Harbor, MI

3d • $45,000 - $53,800

About The Position

The Foster Care Specialist works in the child welfare arena to help find permanency for children residing in foster care. The specialist collaborates with children, caregivers, birth parents, courts, and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to develop the permanency goal most appropriate for each child. The role serves a caseload of foster children, their birth families, and licensed or unlicensed caregivers across Michigan, and provides or refers families to services based on structured assessments.

The position coordinates services with staff and families, maintains regular contact, participates in on-call placements and emergency services, and drives and transports as needed. It requires effective communication, sound judgment, conflict resolution, engagement, patience, and the ability to work with diverse populations and difficult situations.

Catholic Charities West Michigan is a community-based agency that provides family preservation, behavioral health, child welfare, and community outreach programs in Western Michigan. The organization is committed to a diverse workforce and a respectful, fair work environment. The stated salary range is $45,000 to $53,800.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, or a human service-related area as specified by MSA and BCAL rules.
• At least 3 years of related experience in the human services field.
• Knowledge of Michigan courts, or ability to interact successfully with court personnel and appointed attorneys.
• Ability to use DHHS computer systems and other computer systems required by contract.
• Strong conflict-resolution skills and ability to work with difficult individuals.
• Strong engagement skills, coping skills, and patience for difficult situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to relate to diverse populations and cultures and communicate with clients and the public courteously and effectively.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Child welfare experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve a caseload of foster children, their birth families, and their licensed or unlicensed caregivers across Michigan.
• Provide or refer children and birth families to services based on a structured assessment of the children and their birth family.
• Maintain regular contacts.
• Coordinate services with staff and families.
• Participate in on-call placements and emergency services.
• Drive and transport as needed.

What This Job Offers

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