Adoption Specialist

Job Overview Adoption Specialist – Adoption & Child Welfare Department, reporting to the Adoption Supervisor. Full‑time, salaried, exempt. Daily pay range $36,660 – $39,104. Responsibilities Assess, prepare, and place children from foster care into adoptive homes. Recruit, screen, assess, educate, train, and support adoptive families. Supervise children in their adoptive placement to ensure successful adjustment; make referrals as needed. Organize, facilitate, and monitor services to achieve annual adoption objectives, including placements and finalizations. Coordinate community resources (counseling, special education, DHHS, etc.) for adoptive children and families. Complete all required agency, DHHS, Adoption Assistance, and legal paperwork on time. Help develop and implement adoption plans for timely permanency. Assist with support group activities and case‑related court hearings and meetings. Maintain accurate and current case records; ensure high‑standard professional services. Participate in staff meetings, departmental meetings, and other agency duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, majoring in social work or a related human services field. Background experience in foster care, adoption, or with individuals with special needs. Comprehensive understanding of child development, particularly for adoptive children from foster care. Knowledge of community resources. Valid driver’s license with good driving record and reliable vehicle available at all times. Good conflict‑resolution skills and ability to work effectively in a team. Competence in computer use and keyboarding skills. Good moral character and no criminal record. Familiarity with and adherence to the agency code of ethics and standards. Personal commitment to the agency’s mission, philosophy, and values. Required Skills and Competencies Working under pressure and maintaining composure in stressful situations. Planning and organizing to set priorities and allocate resources effectively. Attention to detail, accuracy, and completeness. Customer‑service orientation and effective listening skills. Motivation to inspire and encourage others toward goals. Integrity and adherence to policies, confidentiality, and ethical conduct. Reliability, trustworthiness, and consistent productivity. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to address diverse audiences. Adaptability to changing work environments, priorities, and organizational needs. Problem‑solving and decision‑making capabilities. Technical proficiency in relevant software and tools. Teamwork and collaborative interaction with internal and external partners. Accountability for personal actions and outcomes. Physical and Environmental Requirements The role primarily involves stationary work and computer use, with occasional travel to court hearings, home visits, and community meetings. No exposure to extreme heat, cold, noise, chemicals, or hazardous equipment. EEO Statement DABSJ is an equal‑opportunity, at‑will employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, culture, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic. Applicants and employees are welcome to bring their unique perspectives to the organization. #J-18808-Ljbffr D.A. Blodgett