Adoption/Guardianship Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

This position will work closely with case managers to ensure a complete file is secured as work with the family continues.

This includes ensuring all initial processes are complete by DCFS standards, such as ICWA, background checks, completeness of medical records, etc.

The permanency worker drives the focus and schedules time with case managers to complete the legal screening process and / or gather necessary documents to facilitate the adoption or guardianship process.

This worker participates in supervision with the case manager, as necessary, to identify the stages of the case and the trajectory of permanency.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Reviews intakes, along with initial completion of and obtaining of paperwork such as court orders, ICWA, felony records, medical records, etc, to ensure all barriers are eliminated for service delivery.
• Assess in coordination with supervisors and program manager the trajectory of the case and begins initial review and assessment of readiness to assist in facilitating an expedient permanency process for the child.
• In conjunction with Case Manager, completes all necessary paperwork for legal screening and adoption as appropriate within the targeted timeframe.
• Maintains familiarity with DCFS policy and procedures as it applies to the foster care program, legal screening, and adoption processes and assures compliance.
• Reviews and assesses compliance with foster home licensing records to ensure all pertinent records (i.e. background checks, home study, etc.

are up to date to facilitate permanency for the client.

• Completes and maintains case records in accordance with DCFS requirements and manner, including face-to-face contact, phone contact, and collateral contacts.
• Attend training opportunities as required by DCFS or recommended by the Foster Care supervisor.
• Provides after-hour emergency coverage as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS and ABILITIES

• Licensure by DCFS or eligible for licensing.
• The ability to understand the issues of separation and loss for the child in care and a commitment to a child's right to belong to a family;
• The specialized knowledge, skills, and experience required to help parents improve parenting capacities, maintain ties with their children, and develop and implement a stable, permanent plan for their future.
• The ability to provide service in a manner that reflects an appreciation for the cultural background, heritage, and identity of each child.
• Good oral and written communication skills.

EDUCATION AND / OR EXPERIENCE

• A Master's Degree from an accredited program in social work education or in another human services field is preferred, or A Bachelor's Degree in social work or a related human service field with supervision by a Master's Degree in social work or a related human service field with at least two years of experience in the provision of foster care or other out-of-home care.
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must possess and maintain proof of automobile insurance.

CARE & TCI

One of the essential job functions of any position within the agency is to align your performance with our overarching philosophy of CARE.

All decisions, actions, communication, and performance should align with the six CARE principles (Developmentally Focused, Family Involved, Relationship Based, Ecologically Oriented, Competence Centered, and Trauma Informed).

Not only must you complete the CARE training with satisfactory participation, but you must then put that training into practice in your everyday work.

Every employee must also pass TCI training with a satisfactory grade in written and / or physical testing. All employees must remain current on refresher training that is provided monthly at all locations.

You will be tested every 6 months on the physical portion, if applicable to your position. You will be tested annually on the written portion, regardless of your position.

If you are not current on your TCI refresher training every six months, you will be required to retake the full course. If you do not pass either test, you may be required to retake the full course.

Not only must you complete the TCI training with satisfactory participation, but you must then put that training into practice in your everyday work.

Location : 62208

Job Posted by ApplicantPro