Social Worker-Family Development Specialist

LSS of South Dakota • Rapid City, SD

3d

About The Position

Lutheran Social Services is hiring a Family Development Specialist to assist families navigating the process of becoming foster or adoptive resources. The role supports children and youth in out-of-home placement in connecting with family members and finding permanent, nurturing homes. The position may be based in an office in Aberdeen or Sioux Falls, or remotely and community-based in rural South Dakota locations. Travel is required, and mileage is reimbursed.

The role involves completing home study assessments for prospective foster and kinship families pursuing foster care or kinship licensing and adoption approval. The specialist partners with families throughout the home study process, prepares written assessments, and provides resources and support. The position is part of the Licensing Team and works collaboratively with South Dakota DSS/CPS.

This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position, Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. Salary depends on experience and qualifications. A $600 sign-on/hiring bonus may be available to external candidates.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field.
• One to two years of related experience.
• Licensed Social Worker or Licensed Social Work Associate through the South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Successfully complete all agency background checks.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain approved driver status.
• Ability to travel for work; mileage is reimbursed.

Responsibilities

• Assist families in navigating the process to become foster or adoptive resources.
• Complete home study assessments for prospective foster and kinship families pursuing foster care and kinship licensing and adoption approval.
• Partner with families to complete the home study process.
• Write home study assessments.
• Provide resources and support to families throughout the home study process.
• Collaborate with the Licensing Team and South Dakota DSS/CPS.

Benefits

• $600 hiring/sign-on bonus for eligible external candidates.
• PTO time frontload of up to 24 hours for benefit-eligible employees.
• 8 paid holidays.
• 401(k) with 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