Kinship Specialist-Foster Care

Lutheran Social Service • Winner, SD

2d

About The Position

The Kinship Specialist works 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 various search tools and resources to locate and connect with relative resources and collaborates with South Dakota DSS/CPS as a member of the LSS Kinship Team.

Positions are available in South Dakota communities. Onsite/in-office roles are available in Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls. Remote/community-based roles 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, Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. The position is non-exempt, and 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 potential placement options or family connections that meet the child’s needs.
• Use search tools and resources to locate and connect with relatives.
• 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.
• Up to 24 hours of frontloaded PTO 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.

What This Job Offers

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