Child Welfare Resource Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), is a leading not-for-profit organization providing healing, justice and wholeness to people and communities. For over 150 years, LSSI has made a difference in the lives of children and families, and we're still a strong, viable presence in the State of Illinois, continuing that commitment to making a difference.

LSSI is seeking a Full-Time a Child Welfare Resource Specialist to join the team. The Specialist will provide the full range of resource services for foster and adoptive families within state mandates, COA standards, agency policies, and program plans.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth, mutual assessments of prospective foster/adoptive families to determine suitability for foster home licensing in accordance with DCFS Rule 402, the Child Care Act, agency policies and procedures and other applicable rules and procedures. Conduct ongoing mutual assessment with licensed families to ensure quality care for children and for purposes of monitoring, license renewal and/or enforcement.
• Participate in the planning and implementation of the recruitment plan for new foster homes. Efforts should be made to secure foster families that can be matched to the population served by the programs.
• Complete and submit all required reports, documentation and billing accurately and timely as required by agency and funding sources.
• Identify ongoing training and support issues in existing homes and facilitate provision of services needed to meet identified needs.  This may include designing and providing training or arranging trainings in the community. Include foster/adoptive parent in assessment and planning process.
• Participate in supervisory process for guidance, direction, support, and approval of decision-making assessment service planning and intervention. Participate in program staffing’s and present prospective and licensed families for staffing in preparation for recommending licensure, renewal of license or other critical decisions.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in social work or degree related in the human service field; previous child welfare experience strongly desired.
• State Licensing/certification as required by the State of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate in a clear, comprehensible manner, both verbally and in writing. 
• Valid Illinois driver’s license and proof of automobile liability insurance is required. Access to transportation for visits, meetings, and to transport clients as assigned. 
• Background check clearance, both criminal and CANTS

Benefits and Perks:

Come be a part of this rewarding environment, and enjoy the knowledge that you’re helping others live better lives, as well as these career advantages: 

• Competitive salary based upon relevant education, experience and licensure
• Opportunity for advancement
• Comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare insurance, up to 26 days of paid time off per calendar year, 10 paid holidays, sick time, 403(b) plan, Employee Assistance Program, and flexible hours
• The training you need to learn, grow, and succeed
• The opportunity to become a part of a fantastic team of Child Welfare professionals! 

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, pregnancy, any other characteristic protected by law.