CHILD WELFARE SPECIALIST- FOSTER CARE LICENSING SPECIALIST (Upward Mobility)

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and energetic individual to serve as Foster Home Licensing Specialist.  Under general supervision, this position will complete the required assessment to ensure that families meet DCFS licensing standards and are prepared to care for children.  The position will provide support and strengthen Department relationships with foster parents and assist families in resolving compliance issues.

This position provides a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about children and interested in playing a role in ensuring that foster homes provide a safe, caring environment for children.  DCFS offers a competitive compensation plan, excellent benefits, and a pension program.  The ideal candidate for this position will have excellent organizational skills and strong communication skills.  We invite you to join our innovative team to help make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families of Illinois.

Job Responsibilities

1. Completes the required assessment to ensure that families meet DCFS licensing standards and are prepared to care for children.
2. Coordinates with other units and staff, including the Office of Professional Development, caseworkers, investigators, recruiters, and foster parent support specialists.
3. Consults with DCFS staff and C&A LAN’s with recommendations about the selection of foster family resources that best meet the needs of children, including recommendations for support services to maintain the resources. 
4. Conducts investigations relative to complaints about licensed foster/adoptive homes in accordance with the Childcare Act.
5. Provides/maintains reports, statistics, records and documentation of activities on a monthly basis or as needed.
6. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferably requires a master’s degree in social work; OR a master’s degree in a related human service field, supplemented by one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; OR requires a bachelor’s degree in social work and one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; OR requires a bachelor’s degree in a related human service field and two years of directly related professional casework/case management experience. 

The college or university issuing a bachelor's or master's degree must be accredited, and the degree program in social work must be approved by the Council on Social Work Education.  The directly related professional casework/case management experience must be related to family preservation, family reunification, adoption, youth development, counseling, and advocacy services or a related field.

Conditions of Employment

1. Requires ability to pass a background check.
2. Requires possession of a valid driver's license, daily access to an automobile, and proof of vehicle insurance.
3. Requires physical, visual, and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties.

About the Agency

DCFS is deeply committed to the welfare and protection of children.  Our goal is to protect children by strengthening and supporting families.  In every effort, from receiving hotline calls to reaching family reunification or foster care and adoption, children and families are our focus.