Kinship Navigator Specialist - Social Worker-Cedar Rapids & Surrounding Areas

Four Oaks Family & Children Services•Cedar Rapids, IA

About The Position

Four Oaks is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Kinship Navigator Specialist to help children remain connected to relatives and other trusted people who can provide safe, stable, and nurturing homes. The specialist works with kinship caregivers, children, parents, relatives, fictive kin, and community professionals to identify needs, overcome barriers, and support positive outcomes. The role includes assessing caregiver needs and developing individualized Kinship Support Plans with achievable goals and action steps. The specialist helps families access essential services and community resources, strengthens their support systems, and collaborates with families and community partners to promote child safety, stable placements, and reunification when appropriate. The work supports children’s connections to family and community, reduces placement disruptions, and helps caregivers build confidence and lasting stability. This is a full-time, first-shift position serving Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas. Four Oaks describes its workplace as supportive and team-oriented, with a business casual environment and emphasis on flexibility and professional growth.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, master's degree, or associate degree in social work or a human services-related field, plus two years of full-time paid experience in child welfare; or a master's degree in human services.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with foster and adoptive families.

Responsibilities

Support kinship caregivers providing homes for children within their extended families or natural support systems.
Build relationships with children, parents, relatives, fictive kin, and community professionals to identify needs, address barriers, and create positive outcomes.
Assess caregiver needs and develop individualized Kinship Support Plans with achievable goals and action steps.
Help caregivers access childcare, food assistance, clothing, furniture, transportation assistance, and medical, dental, and mental health care.
Help families access community programs, financial assistance, medical insurance, and legal support when needed.
Connect caregivers with support groups and community resources that encourage shared experiences, emotional support, and connection.
Collaborate with families and community partners to maintain stable placements, support reunification when appropriate, and prioritize child safety.
Use a strengths-based approach to help families recognize their abilities, build confidence, and create lasting stability.