Resource Family Specialist I/II/III - KARE
About The Position
The Resource Family Specialist works on the KARE (Kinship Assessment Relative Engagement) team to complete kinship resource family assessments for potential foster and adoptive placements with kin, in collaboration with Actively Seeking Kinnections (ASK) units. The position develops methods to expedite the identification, recruitment, and retention of kinship families for children who are in or at risk of entering the child welfare system. Kinship resource families are relatives or people with a kinship relationship to the child who are suitable, capable, and willing to serve as caretakers. The role conducts interviews with parents, children, and other known family members, friends, and community members to identify additional family connections. This includes reviewing case notes and conducting online searches. New employees complete the Child Welfare Core Academy Training Program, and extensive training is provided. The position may be based in Antlers, Hugo, or Idabel, Oklahoma. Travel is extensive; employees must have a valid driver's license and maintain required car insurance. State vehicles are available for work duties.
Requirements
- Level I: Completion of 90 hours from an accredited college or university, or three years of experience related to child welfare work, or a combination of education and experience.
- Level II: A bachelor's degree in any field, or one year of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.
- Level III: A master's degree, or a bachelor's degree plus one year of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist, or two years of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.
- Possess a valid driver's license and maintain required car insurance.
- Willingness to travel extensively.
Nice To Haves
- Applicants with a Master's Degree in Social Work are eligible for a 5% salary incentive.
Responsibilities
- Complete kinship resource family assessments for foster and adoption placements with kin, working in tandem with ASK units.
- Create methods to expedite the identification, recruitment, and retention of kinship families for children in or at risk of entering the child welfare system.
- Interview parents, children, known family members, friends, and community members to identify additional family connections.
- Search case notes and conduct online searches to identify family connections.
- Complete the Child Welfare Core Academy Training Program as a new employee.
Benefits
- Full State Employee Benefits
- On-call positions receive an additional bonus of $75 to $100 every two weeks, depending on responsibilities.
- State vehicles are available for work duties.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
