Foster Home Licensing Specialist

State of Illinois•Elgin, IL

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Foster Home Licensing Specialist serves within the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and works to support the selection and maintenance of foster family resources that meet children’s needs. The specialist coordinates with agency units and staff, including professional development, caseworkers, investigators, recruiters, and foster parent support specialists. The role also consults with DCFS staff and Child and Adolescent Local Area Networks on resource selection and support-service recommendations, investigates complaints about licensed foster/adoptive homes, and maintains required records and reports. The position is based at 595 S State St, Elgin, Illinois. The stated work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A hybrid schedule may be available, with three to five days per week in the office depending on operational needs. The position is salaried and full time, is covered by a union contract, and is part of the Upward Mobility Program.

Requirements

Meet one of the following education and experience combinations: a master’s degree in social work; a master’s degree in a related human service field plus one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; a bachelor’s degree in social work plus one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; or a bachelor’s degree in a related human service field plus two years of directly related professional casework/case management experience.
Degrees must be issued by an accredited college or university, and social work degree programs must be approved by the Council on Social Work Education.
Directly related professional casework/case management experience must relate to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling, advocacy services, or a related field.
Complete a background check and disclose criminal history.
Possess a valid driver’s license, daily access to an automobile, and proof of vehicle insurance.
Have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties.
Submit required Statements of Economic Interest and Supplemental Statements of Economic Interest, as applicable to the position.

Responsibilities

Coordinate with other units and staff, including the Office of Professional Development, caseworkers, investigators, recruiters, and foster parent support specialists.
Consult with DCFS staff and Child and Adolescent Local Area Networks about selecting foster family resources that best meet children’s needs, including recommendations for support services to maintain those resources.
Investigate complaints about licensed foster/adoptive homes in accordance with the Childcare Act.
Provide and maintain reports, statistics, records, and documentation of activities monthly or as needed.
Perform other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of the listed duties.

Benefits

Pension program
Group insurance benefits, including health, life, dental, and vision insurance
3 paid personal business days annually
12 paid sick days annually, with sick days carrying over from year to year
10–25 days of paid vacation annually, with 10 days in the first year of employment
13 paid holidays annually, and 14 in even-numbered years
Flexible work schedules when available and dependent on position
12 weeks of paid parental leave
Deferred Compensation Program supplemental retirement plan
Optional pre-tax Medical Care Assistance Plan and Dependent Care Assistance Plan
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
GI Bill training/apprenticeship benefits eligibility for qualifying veterans
5% salary differential for bilingual positions
Commuter Savings Program in Chicago