Social Worker-Family Development Specialist
About The Position
Lutheran Social Services is hiring Family Development Specialists to help children and youth in out-of-home placement connect with family members and to support adoptive families in helping children find permanent, nurturing homes. The role assists families who are pursuing foster or kinship licensing and adoption approval, including completing home study assessments and connecting families with resources and support throughout the process. Positions are available in South Dakota. 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, Pierre, Rosebud, White River, and Winner. Travel is required, with mileage reimbursement. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends as needed. Salary depends on experience and qualifications. A $600 sign-on 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.
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 and write home study assessments.
- Provide resources and support to families throughout the home study process.
- Contribute as a member of the Licensing Team and collaborate with South Dakota DSS/CPS.
Benefits
- $600 sign-on bonus for eligible external candidates.
- PTO time frontload of up to 24 hours 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
