Foster Care Specialist

Job DetailsJob Location: LINCOLN, NE 68521Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: 4 Year DegreeSalary Range: $24.00 - $24.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: FrequentJob Shift: Day/Evening/WeekendJob Summary:
The Foster Care Specialist at Jenda Family Services plays a pivotal role in providing exemplary direct services to foster youth, parents, and the homes supported by Jenda. This position is responsible for managing assigned caseloads, ensuring compliance with regulations, advocating for foster youth and homes, and fostering effective communication among all parties involved.
 

Duties/Responsibilities:
•Serve as an advocate for foster youth and homes, ensuring effective communication among all parties.
•Assist foster homes in achieving self-sufficiency by providing support, teaching essential skills, andconnecting them with resources.
•Manage assigned caseloads with attention to each case’s unique dynamics and requirements.
•Conduct ongoing assessments of foster youth and homes, escalating concerns as necessary.
•Maintain timely and accurate documentation in compliance with Jenda Foster Care policies, 391 NACChapter 8, and DHHS contract agreements.
•Facilitate in-home meetings with foster youth and parents, adapting as needed with approval from theFoster Care Director.
•Coordinate necessary appointments for foster youth to ensure their well-being.
•Participate in scheduled trainings and professional development opportunities.
•Attend weekly staff meetings and individual supervisory sessions to promote collaboration.
•Participate in an on-call rotation to address emergent needs during designated weeks.
•Travel as needed to best support foster youth and homes.
•Performs other related duties as assigned.
QualificationsRequired Skills/Abilities:
•Strong advocacy and communication skills.
•Ability to assess foster youth and home needs, develop support plans, and escalate concerns.
•Problem-solving skills to help foster homes achieve self-sufficiency.
•Strong organization and time management.
•Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
•Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and on-call rotations.
•Strong interpersonal skills to navigate challenging situations.
•Commitment to ongoing training and professional development.
•Ability to work independently with contributing to a team environment.


Education and Experience:
•Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field.
•At least 2-3 years of experience in child welfare, social work, or a related field.
•Experience with foster care is required.


Work and Physical Environment:
•May require weekend, evenings, and on-call hours to address emergencies
•Daily travel exposes workers to outdoor weather conditions.
•Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at a time.