Kinship Specialist-Foster Care

LSS of South Dakota • Belle Fourche, SD

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About The Position

Lutheran Social Services (LSS) is hiring a Kinship Specialist to work with children in South Dakota DSS/CPS custody. The specialist works with each child’s team to identify, locate, and engage relatives, and connects with the child, biological parents, DSS/CPS staff, ICWA, and other team members to identify potential placement options or family connections that best meet the child’s needs. The role uses search tools and other resources to locate and connect with relatives and collaborates with South Dakota DSS/CPS as a member of the LSS Kinship Team.

Positions are available onsite/in-office in Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls, and remotely/community-based in rural areas throughout South Dakota. Travel is required, with mileage reimbursement. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. It is non-exempt; salary depends on experience and qualifications.

LSS describes its mission as supporting and empowering families so children can grow up in safe, loving, and nurturing homes. Its stated core values are compassionate, appreciative, respectful, ethical, and strategic service.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field.
• One to two years of related experience.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must successfully complete all agency background checks.
• Must have active auto insurance and a valid driver’s license, or be able to obtain a license with approved driver status.

Responsibilities

• Work with a child’s team to identify, locate, and engage relatives of children in South Dakota DSS/CPS custody.
• Connect with children, biological parents, DSS/CPS staff, ICWA, and other team members to identify potential placement options or family connections that meet each child’s needs.
• Use search tools and resources to locate and connect with relative resources.
• Collaborate with South Dakota DSS/CPS as a member of the LSS Kinship Team.

Benefits

• $600 hiring bonus for external candidates only.
• PTO time frontload of up to 24 hours for benefit-eligible employees.
• Eight paid holidays.
• 401(k) with a 3% employer match.
• Four Wellmark BCBS medical plan options, with HSA and FSA options.
• Dental and vision plans.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Career development opportunities, hands-on training, and mentorship.
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
• Mileage reimbursement for required travel.

What This Job Offers

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