Child Welfare Program Specialist

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

LSF is seeking dedicated Child Welfare Program Specialists who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.

Purpose & Impact:

The role of the Child Welfare Program Specialist is to deliver comprehensive case management services to LSF families while fostering strong relationships and upholding the agency's core values.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accept assigned cases from the unit supervisor and conduct meetings with children in their home within 2 working days of initial staffing, as well as engage with parents to complete a Family Assessment within 15 working days.
• Collaborate with families, Guardian Ad Litem, foster parents, and other relevant parties to create a case plan focused on the unification or other permanency goals for the child.
• Conduct regular visits with the child in their primary residence, ensuring a minimum of one unannounced visit each quarter.
• Document all case activities in the Florida Safe Families Network (FSFN) within 48 hours, maintaining organized physical case files.
• Submit service requests to the Utilization Management Department and provide timely referrals to community resources and support services, keeping contact with service providers.
• Prepare and submit court documentation in a timely manner, and attend all relevant court activities as necessary.
• Facilitate individual case staffings, and complete required staffing and application packets.
• Conduct child safety assessments and develop necessary safety plans.
• Arrange emergency placements and services for at-risk children, including medical treatments.
• Perform diligent searches for parents and family members when needed, thoroughly documenting efforts.
• Conduct home studies for prospective placements and provide caregivers with pertinent information about the child.
• Transport children as required, ensuring all Independent Living functions are fulfilled.
• Attend appointments, staff meetings, training courses, and workshops as mandated.
• Serve as the on-call Case Manager as scheduled.
• Organize and prioritize work assignments to meet established deadlines.

Standards of Conduct:

• Treat clients, the public, and staff with courtesy and respect, presenting a positive image of the agency.
• Maintain open communication with supervisors, keeping them informed of activities and any potential issues.
• Assist in team efforts, supporting the overall goals of the agency.
• Adhere to safety procedures and protocols within the workplace.
• Complete all required trainings including the PDC Assessment and Field-Based Performance Assessment as part of ongoing professional development.
• Respect client confidentiality at all times.
• Carry an active cellphone to respond to on-call duties promptly.

Additional Tasks:

Perform related duties and special assignments as needed.

Physical Requirements:

• Must possess high energy levels, adaptability to irregular hours, and willingness to travel frequently.
• Valid driver's license and appropriate auto liability insurance are mandatory.
• Job requires extensive driving and occasional unexpected travel.
• May require working nights and weekends as necessary.

Education:

A bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field is essential, with a preference for degrees in Social Work.

Experience:

At least one year of relevant experience is required, with certification obtained within one year of hire.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and Excel.
• Typing speed of at least 45 words per minute.
• Ability to drive locally and throughout the state effectively.
• Comprehension of case ownership responsibilities to ensure holistic support for each child.

Additional Information:

Demonstrated sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs of our service population is essential.

Accountabilities:

• Reports directly to the Case Management Supervisor.
• Collaborates effectively with Program Directors, fellow Case Managers, placement staff, Protective Investigators, Child Welfare Legal staff, and agency support personnel.
• Manages time efficiently to complete all home visits and documentation within required timelines.
• Follows legislation, administrative codes, and policies in the management of cases per scope of case plans.

Why Join LSF?

LSF offers a diverse range of programs across the state of Florida, providing a chance to become part of a transformative mission. Our team members are committed to making positive changes in the lives of those in need while exploring various growth opportunities within the organization.

Amazing benefits package includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• 24/7 Telehealth Access
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• 13 Paid Holidays + 1 Floating Holiday
• Generous PTO Policy (starting at 16 days per year)
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match or Student Loan Repayment Assistance
• Tuition Reimbursement

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Lutheran Services Florida is mandated to perform background screenings for employment in accordance with Florida law. For more information on background screening requirements, please visit the respective state guidelines. LSF is required to notify all applicants of their rights based on federal employment laws.