Foster Care Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Foster Care Specialist (Hybrid)Chicago, ILFull-Time | HybridThis is a field-based, hybrid position. You must live in Illinois and be able to travel throughout the Chicagoland area to provide in-person services to youth and families in home and community settings.Make a Real Impact with Youth and Families Across ChicagoKaleidoscope is a child and family services agency dedicated to helping young people heal, grow, and thrive. Our work is grounded in compassion, respect, and genuine partnership with youth, caregivers, and community partners. Through individualized, community-based services, we strengthen family systems and promote safety, stability, and permanency.We are seeking a Foster Care Specialist to join our dedicated, mission-driven team supporting youth and families involved in the child welfare system.About the RoleThe Foster Care Specialist provides comprehensive, community-based case management services to children, youth, and their biological and foster families. This role is focused on ensuring safety, well-being, and permanency outcomes through assessment, service coordination, family engagement, and system collaboration.This is a highly collaborative role that requires strong relationship-building, critical thinking, and advocacy skills across multiple systems, including DCFS, courts, schools, and healthcare providers.What You'll DoProvide case management services to assigned children, youth, and families, promoting safety, permanency, and well-beingConduct initial and ongoing assessments to identify service needs and support planningDevelop, implement, and update individualized service and treatment plans in partnership with Child and Family TeamsMaintain consistent face-to-face contact with youth and families in home and community settings to monitor safety and progressProvide guidance, resources, and referrals to biological and foster parents to support stability and family reunificationSupport foster parents in providing safe, nurturing, and therapeutic care for youthCoordinate and attend key meetings, including Administrative Case Reviews (ACRs), CFTMs, school meetings, and court hearingsCollaborate with DCFS, courts, medical providers, schools, and other community partners to ensure coordinated careMonitor foster home licensing compliance and report concerns as neededFacilitate and support family visitation plans to promote connection and permanencyMaintain accurate and timely documentation, including case notes, assessments, and required child welfare documentationUtilize knowledge of DCFS procedures, COA standards, and agency policies to ensure complianceAdvocate for youth and family needs across systems to remove barriers and strengthen outcomesScheduleFull -time (40 hours/week)Schedule based on the needs of families (may include evenings and weekends)Hybrid role with a combination of community-based and remote workWhat You NeedBachelor's degree in Social Work or a related human services field requiredMinimum experience:Bachelor 's: 2+ years in social servicesMaster's: 1+ year in social servicesLCSW or LCPC preferred (not required)Experience working with children, families, and/or child welfare systemsStrong assessment, organization, and communication skillsKnowledge of trauma-informed practices and family systemsProficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, etc.)Ability to obtain required Illinois certifications (CWEL, CANS, CERAP)Valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and ability to travel locallyWhat It's Like to Work HereKaleidoscope is a supportive, mission-driven organization. Our work is guided by shared values that shape how we show up for youth, families, and each other:Lead with empathy and non-judgmentPractice self-awarenessName power imbalances and structural limitationsCenter youth, caregiver, and team voice and choiceDemonstrate flexibility and resourcefulnessBalance healthy boundaries with authentic relationshipsStay connected to purposePrioritize self-careCommit to critical thinking and curiosityCelebrate strengths and successesWhy You'll Love This RoleCompetitive salary and comprehensive benefitsGenerous paid time off and sick leaveFlexible, hybrid work structureOngoing professional development and trainingStrong supervision and team supportMeaningful, direct impact on youth and familiesEqual Employment OpportunityKaleidoscope Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Inclusive/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.