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 role collaborates with children, caregivers, birth parents, the Courts, and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to establish the permanency goal most appropriate for each child. The specialist serves foster children, their birth families, and licensed or unlicensed caregivers across Michigan, and provides or refers families to services based on structured assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, psychology, or a human service-related area as specified by MSA and BCAL rules.
• Minimum of three 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 in 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.
• Ability to drive and transport as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Child welfare experience 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