Licensing and Placement Supervisor

LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES OF THE NAT•Greenbelt, MD

2d•$82,000 - $102,900•Onsite

About The Position

The Licensing and Placement Supervisor provides integrated leadership and oversight for both the foster parent licensing team and the foster care placement team, including Licensing Specialists, Home Study Workers, Foster Parent Recruiters, Placement Specialists, and Family Support Workers. This role ensures all licensing and placement activities comply with state regulations, agency policies, and accreditation standards. The Licensing and Placement Supervisor is responsible for managing staff performance, coordinating licensing and placement processes, maintaining placement stability, and promoting trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices throughout the foster parent recruitment, approval, and placement continuum. "This position is contingent upon grant funding/award. Recruitment is being conducted in advance of a final funding decision. Employment will begin only if funding is secured."

Requirements

Master’s degree in Social Work with clinical licensure (LICSW or LCSW).
Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in child welfare or foster care, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
Demonstrated knowledge of foster care licensing processes, placement best practices, and child welfare regulations.
Strong leadership and team-building abilities with experience managing multi-functional teams.
Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of trauma-informed care and culturally responsive practices.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

Supervise and support licensing and placement staff, including Licensing Specialists, Home Study Workers, Foster Parent Recruiters, Placement Specialists, and Family Support Workers, ensuring high-quality performance and adherence to timelines.
Conduct regular team meetings for both licensing and placement teams, provide coaching, and facilitate professional development opportunities.
Provide performance evaluations and ongoing mentorship to all supervised staff.
Ensure timely and accurate completion of foster parent applications, home studies, and background checks.
Monitor compliance with state licensing requirements and agency standards.
Review and approve home studies and licensing documentation.
Implement quality control measures to maintain accuracy and consistency in licensing files.
Ensure prospective foster parents receive trauma-informed orientation and training.
Collaborate with recruiters to develop strategies for attracting and retaining foster parents.
Oversee the matching process between children and licensed foster families, ensuring placements are made in compliance with state regulations and agency policies.
Monitor placement activities and documentation for accuracy and completeness.
Provide guidance and support during placement disruptions or emergencies.
Work to maintain placement stability and promote the well-being of children in care.
Prepare for audits and respond to regulatory inquiries related to both licensing and placement functions.
Track licensing and placement activities, maintaining accurate records in agency systems.
Prepare reports on licensing progress, placement trends, staff performance, and recruitment outcomes for leadership.
Use data to identify gaps and recommend program improvements.
Work closely with case management staff, foster parents, and external partners to support placement needs and licensing continuity.
Serve as a liaison between the agency and external partners, including DC CFSA and community organizations.