Social Worker-Family Development Specialist

LSS of South Dakota • Martin, SD

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About The Position

Lutheran Social Services is hiring a Family Development Specialist to help children and youth in out-of-home placement connect with family members and support children in finding permanent, safe, loving, and nurturing families. The role assists families as they navigate becoming foster or adoptive resources and supports them throughout the approval process.

Positions are available in Aberdeen and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, as onsite/in-office roles, and in rural communities including Chamberlain, Lake Andes, Martin, Pierre, Rosebud, White River, and Winner, South Dakota, as remote/community-based roles. 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. External candidates may be eligible for a $600 sign-on bonus.

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.
• Successful completion of 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, write home study assessments, and provide resources and support throughout the process.
• Work collaboratively with South Dakota DSS/CPS as a member of the Licensing Team.

Benefits

• $600 hiring bonus for external candidates only; eligibility may apply.
• PTO time frontload of up to 24 hours for benefit-eligible employees.
• Eight 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.
• Mileage reimbursement for required travel.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level