SWAN Permanency Specialist

Bethany Christian Services USA • Abington Township, PA

2h

About The Position

Rooted in its Christian faith, Bethany Christian Services works to ensure children are safe, loved, and connected through family. The SWAN Permanency Specialist helps advance this mission by supporting adoptive families and children through permanency services. The role develops home studies and family profiles, administers adoption process steps, prepares children for permanency, and provides placement and post-placement support. It also coordinates with local agencies and other professionals, conducts recruitment and training activities, and maintains accurate documentation in accordance with agency, program, licensing, and regulatory standards. Some duties may be required during evenings and weekends, and responsibilities may vary with program needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field from an accredited college.
• Experience writing home studies for domestic adoptions.
• Prior work experience in child or family welfare.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to apply logic and critical thinking to problem-solving.
• Ability to provide excellent, compassionate customer service.
• Reliability in meeting time-sensitive deadlines and completing tasks.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to change.
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions, including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license with at least three years of U.S. driving experience to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany.
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage.
• Must pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries.
• Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field from an accredited college.

Responsibilities

• Develop home studies and family profiles for initially approved families in accordance with agency expectations and procedures.
• Complete reports and documents in accordance with agency, program, and licensing expectations, ensuring timely and accurate submission.
• Provide placement and post-placement services for adoptive families according to state licensure, COA, and Bethany standards.
• Administer process steps for child profiles, child preparation, child-specific recruitment, family profiles, and finalization.
• Prepare children for permanency through life books, therapeutic sessions, and other necessary interventions.
• Conduct file reviews to support documentation and work effectively with clients.
• Recruit and screen families for specific children by consulting with youth, using appropriate media and technology, attending matching events, and networking with child welfare professionals.
• Support families and children after placement through monthly visits and efficient processing of applicable legal paperwork.
• Conduct periodic information meetings and trainings for prospective adoptive parents.
• Attend SWAN and adoption-related meetings and conferences as requested.
• Coordinate care with local areas or counties and other professionals involved in cases.
• Perform essential duties on some evenings and weekends as needed.
• Stay current on agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements related to social services.
• Participate in Bethany-sponsored events when required or requested.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Training, professional development, and career growth opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match eligibility.
• Paid holidays, PTO Your Way, paid parental leave, and separate sick and paid absence banks.
• Education reimbursement for those who qualify.
• Employee assistance and wellness program.
• Employer-paid long-term disability and group term life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time