Public Adoptions Social Worker

LSS • Appleton, WI

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan is seeking a compassionate Social Worker to join our Public Adoptions Program . Help children with disabilities in foster care find safe, permanent, loving homes 💛. Our Social Workers provide case management, complete home studies, license adoptive families, and support children and parents throughout the adoption journey.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s in Social Work or related human services field (required)
• Must hold or be eligible for social work certification/licensure (CSW, APSW, LISW, LCSW)
• Valid driver’s license & reliable transportation
• Strong written and verbal communication
• Clear, objective documentation
• Ability to work with diverse populations
• Understanding of mental health, development, and community resources
• Daily travel within the region to visit homes and community locations
• Occasional overnight travel may be required
• Must be comfortable driving in varying weather and community environments

Nice To Haves

• Master’s in Social Work (preferred)
• 2+ years human services/social work experience (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Assess youth and families
• Develop and facilitate service plans
• Conduct home studies & CANS assessments
• Document case activity in eWiSACWIS within required timelines
• Prepare court reports & represent LSS/DCFS professionally
• Travel to homes to ensure child safety
• Support families through placement to finalization
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams
• Maintain knowledge of adoption laws, ethics, and best practices
• Participate in trainings & provide peer consultation
• Meet productivity expectations and adapt to client needs
• Promote client independence
• Use trauma‑informed, person‑centered practices
• Apply evidence‑based models
• Maintain accurate time reporting

Benefits

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility + support
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
• Mileage Reimbursement
• Paid Time Off + 10 Paid Holidays
• 403B Retirement Contribution
• Annual Raises
• Calm Wellness App – Premium Access
• Early Earned Wage Access (UKG Wallet)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Service Awards & Recognition

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees