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 and their teams to identify, locate, and engage relatives. The specialist connects with children, biological parents, DSS/CPS staff, ICWA, and other team members to identify potential placement options and family connections that meet each child’s needs. The role uses a variety of search tools and resources to locate and connect with relatives, and works collaboratively with South Dakota DSS/CPS as part of the LSS Kinship Team.

Positions are available in several South Dakota communities. Onsite/in-office locations include Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls. Remote/community-based positions are available in rural areas, including Chamberlain, Lake Andes, Martin, Mitchell, Pierre, Rosebud, White River, and Winner. Travel is required, and mileage is reimbursed.

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.

LSS is committed to compassionate, appreciative, respectful, ethical, and strategic service. The organization is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field.
• One to two years of related experience.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• 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 potential placement options or family connections that meet the child’s needs.
• Use search tools and other resources to locate and connect with relatives.
• Collaborate with South Dakota DSS/CPS as a member of the LSS Kinship Team.
• Travel as required.

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