Foster Care Case Manager

About the role

The Foster Care Case Manager acts as an advocate for children and families by working with the state and courts to place abused, neglected, or abandoned children into temporary foster homes, preparing them to return home or move to a permanent placement. The role provides professional contracted case management services to children, birth parents, and foster parents; formulates and assesses case plans; and appears in court when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and ensure the well‑being of the child, birth family, and foster family by providing casework and supportive services; ensure services are completed and follow up as necessary; provide referrals to the child and birth parents.
• Formulate case plans, write case reports, complete required legal documentation, and maintain case records within agency and DHHS time frames and requirements; perform associated office work such as compiling statistics, preparing reports, and maintaining files.
• Represent the agency in court and accurately testify to the progress of cases; attend all required hearings and meetings pursuant to cases, clients, children, and families; make assessments and recommendations based on the best interest of the child.
• Operate within the guidelines of agency and DHHS policies and procedures and the program Operations Manual.
• Demonstrate commitment to the social sector with a passion for MCHS’s mission and vision.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Foster Care Supervisor or Director of Child Welfare Programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a human behavioral science such as Social Work or a related discipline, with at least 25 % of course credits in human behavioral sciences.
• One (1) to three (3) years of experience in a social services agency (required).
• Master of Social Work (MSW) with experience working in a foster care program (preferred).
• Child Welfare Training Institute (CWTI) training (preferred).

Knowledge

• Computer and software applications (Windows, MS Office, Internet applications, etc.) necessary to perform the duties of the position.
• Principles and practices of social work, including the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services policies and procedures.
• Family and child dynamics.

Skills

• Effectively engage children and adults.
• Manage time and multiple priorities; meet deadlines.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.
• Exercise professional judgment in making decisions.
• Handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.
• Attend training and maintain necessary certifications and licenses.
• Maintain a Michigan driver’s license and driving record that allows operation of an agency or personal vehicle for agency business or to transport clients as needed.

Work Environment

Work is performed in the office, clients' homes, treatment and residential facilities, courts, and other work sites. Frequent travel may involve exposure to seasonal weather conditions, unsanitary conditions in homes, communicable diseases, and unsafe environments. Duties may require contact with hostile or abusive persons or with children who are upset and confused. The role may involve extended periods of keyboard use, computer screen viewing, sitting, and standing.

Other Information

MCHS is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Employment is at‑will; either MCHS or the employee may terminate employment at any time, with or without notice or reason. MCHS reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.