Foster Care Licensing Specialist

About the Role

As a Foster Care Licensing Specialist, you’ll be part of a foster parent’s Bethany team, supporting them and the child in their care. You’ll train, equip, and help connect foster parents to community resources to meet the child’s needs.

• Assist in the development and follow-through process on innovative and assertive recruitment techniques for foster parents and minority foster parents.
• Facilitate orientation sessions throughout the year.
• Consistently audit and review prospective family files to ensure all paperwork is being received and has not expired.
• Review and audit foster home files to ensure adherence to licensing requirements.
• Develop and coordinate an efficient, informative orientation for prospective foster parents.
• Work closely with prospective foster parents as they go through initial screening and licensing.
• Closely monitor the relicensing of foster homes within the program.
• Review referral information to ensure the appropriate placement in out-of-home placements and coordinate with foster care staff and supervisor, as necessary.
• Serve as a liaison to caseworkers and/or supervisors for activities with the foster homes and the community.
• Ensure foster home licensing, recruitment, and placement practices align with state and federal regulations.
• Inform caseworkers on licensing and placement regulations.
• Communicate rule violations to the caseworker and foster parent in a timely manner, while also working with them to correct violations through special evaluations.
• Assist the Training and Development Coordinator and the Recruitment Specialist in activities to include but not limited to the annual recognition events and other efforts to retain foster parents.
• Essential job responsibilities may vary based on the specific needs of each program/department.
• May be required or asked to participate in a Bethany sponsored event.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field of study from an accredited college.
• Master’s degree in Human Services or related field of study from an accredited college, preferred.
• Prior experience working in foster care or child welfare, a plus.
• Demonstrated ability with interviewing, placement, diagnostic, and family assessment skills.
• Demonstrated ability to relate well and work well with others.
• Eligible to obtain professional licensure in the State of Michigan.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with high initiative.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have an ability to provide excellent and compassionate customer service.
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be 21 years old with a valid driver's license with at least 3 years driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany.
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage.
• 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.

Benefits

• Experience a team environment with other professionals who are motivated by faith, support one another, pursue excellence, and are in it for the long haul.
• Access to training, professional development, and career growth opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision).
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match eligibility.
• Generous time off (11 paid holidays, PTO Your Way, paid parental leave, separate sick and paid absence banks).
• Access to education reimbursement for those that qualify.
• Comprehensive employee assistance and wellness program.
• Employer paid long-term disability and group term life insurance.