Kinship Specialist-Foster Care

Lutheran Social Service • Chamberlain, SD

2d

About The Position

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

Positions are available in several South Dakota communities. Some are onsite/in-office in Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls; others are remote/community-based in rural areas, including but not limited to Chamberlain, Lake Andes, Martin, Mitchell, Pierre, Rosebud, White River, and Winner. Travel is required, with mileage reimbursement.

This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position, generally Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. The position is non-exempt. Salary depends on experience and qualifications.

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 one with approved driver status.

Responsibilities

• Work with a child’s team to identify, locate, and engage relatives for children in South Dakota DSS/CPS custody.
• Connect with children, biological parents, DSS/CPS staff, ICWA, and other team members to identify placement options or family connections that meet the 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.
• Travel as required; mileage is reimbursed.

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% 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