Foster Care Onboarding Specialist

Who we are

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma.

Our cornerstone Foster Care program connects DCFS-referred youth ages 0–21 with safe, nurturing homes and the comprehensive services they need to thrive. Whether supporting Traditional, Specialized, or Adolescent Foster Care, our staff work alongside foster families and caregivers to help young people reach permanency—whether that's reunification with their birth family or a long-term alternative caregiver.

About the Role

Behind every youth we serve is a team of dedicated staff making it possible. Research shows that comprehensive onboarding and training are critical not only for new staff to succeed, but also for long-term outcomes for families. The Onboarding Specialist plays a key role in shaping the success of our Child Welfare Specialists—the frontline caseworkers who support children and families in foster care—and ensuring that they are prepared, supported, and welcomed into our mission-driven work.

As the Foster Care Onboarding Specialist, you'll guide new Child Welfare Specialists through their first 90 days, providing training, coaching, and shadowing in the field. From court hearings to home visits, you'll ensure staff feel confident, prepared, and supported as they step into this vital work. By investing in their growth and retention, you'll directly strengthen the care we provide to Chicago's most vulnerable youth.

In this role, you will :

• Lead new Child Welfare Specialists through their onboarding experience and first 90 days.
• Shadow and support new staff during court dates, home visits, and fieldwork.
• Deliver training, coaching, and re-education sessions to ensure staff success.
• Maintain job aids, resources, and training materials for child welfare processes.
• Partner with HR, Marketing, and Development to recruit and retain foster care staff.
• Track professional development to ensure staff are up to date and in compliance.

Who we're looking for

Required :

Preferred :

Additional Information

This position is based out of our Stewart campus (400 W 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60620). This is a field-based role working alongside new staff during their training period. Typical hours are Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, with flexibility to support staff during occasional evenings or weekends.

Compensation and Benefits

How to Apply

Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you!

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt

Equal Opportunity Employer M / F / D / V

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