Kinship Navigator Specialist - Social Worker-Cedar Rapids & Surrounding Areas
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 role supports kinship caregivers and partners with children, parents, relatives, fictive kin, and community professionals to identify needs, address barriers, and promote positive outcomes. The specialist assesses caregiver needs, develops individualized Kinship Support Plans, and helps families access essential services and community resources. Using a strengths-based approach, the role helps caregivers build confidence and stability, encourages supportive connections, and works collaboratively to maintain stable placements, support reunification when appropriate, and prioritize child safety. The position is based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and surrounding areas.
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; alternatively, a master's degree in human services.
- A bachelor's degree is listed as the education level for the position.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience working with foster and adoptive families.
Responsibilities
- Support kinship caregivers who provide 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, overcome 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.
- Assist families in accessing community programs, financial assistance, medical insurance, and legal support when needed.
- Connect caregivers with support groups and community resources that provide 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.
Benefits
- Flexible work schedule
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Generous paid leave package
- Seven paid holidays
- Career growth and advancement opportunities
- Educational discounts
- Supportive, team-oriented workplace
- Business casual work environment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
