Foster Home Licensing Specialist

Foster Home Licensing SpecialistThe Foster Home Licensing Specialist is responsible for evaluating prospective foster families, maintaining case management responsibilities for licensed foster homes, and ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, licensing, and contractual requirements. This position manages a caseload of foster home licensing cases, including initial evaluations, ongoing supervision of licensed homes, and licensing complaints (special evaluations) as assigned. The Licensing Specialist also participates in foster parent recruitment, retention activities, and training efforts to support the agency's mission of providing safe and appropriate homes for children.Direct Service / Program ResponsibilitiesAssess and evaluate prospective foster families using DHHS-approved documents, policies, and procedures, and recommend issuance or denial of foster home licensesIdentify barriers to successful completion of the licensing process and provide guidance to address those barriersDetermine training needs of prospective foster families and ensure completion of required trainingMaintain monthly contact with licensed and prospective families, providing support, education, and guidance throughout the licensing process and ongoing foster care experienceComplete all initial, annual, and renewal licensing assessments within required timeframesConduct licensing complaint investigations (special evaluations) and make recommendations regarding licensing status and corrective action plansComplete relative caregiver placement assessments as assigned to support foster care program needsCarry a full-time caseload of up to 30 licensing casesRecruitment and Training ResponsibilitiesActively participate in the development and implementation of the agency's recruitment and retention planParticipate in recruitment events, including those held during evenings and weekendsPlan and conduct foster parent orientation meetings and training sessions as neededDevelop and implement family-specific training plans when appropriateCompliance and DocumentationMaintain compliance with State of Michigan licensing policies, regulations, and timelinesMaintain accurate and up-to-date records in CWLM and paper filesAssist families in gathering and completing required licensing documentationConduct periodic audits of licensing records and filesCollaboration and CommunicationMaintain effective working relationships with DHHS, DCWL, licensing consultants, community partners, and agency staffCollaborate with Foster Care and State Adoption programs to support placement and licensing needsParticipate in placement intake processes as assigned, including managing placement inquiries and coordinating responsesAdministrative ResponsibilitiesParticipate in a 24-hour on-call rotation as requiredAttend agency staff meetings and program-related meetingsParticipate in agency trainings and professional development activitiesMaintain an up-to-date personnel file as directed by Human ResourcesMaintain regular and predictable attendancePerform additional duties as assigned to support program and agency operationsTraining RequirementsCompletion of certification training and special evaluation training provided by DCWL within the first six months of employmentCompletion of all agency-mandated orientation and ongoing training requirementsOngoing professional development of a minimum of 32 hours per year, or as required by contract or licensing standardsWork Environment and ScheduleThis position requires a combination of in-office, remote, and community-based work, including in-home services. Significant travel is required. Work may occur during non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends. Participation in an on-call rotation is required. Remote work may be available after the initial training period of six months, depending on program and agency needs.Physical RequirementsOperate a motor vehicle and transport children as neededInstall car seats and safely place children in themNavigate homes and community environments, including climbing stairs, bending, and crouchingSit, stand, and move for extended periodsUtilize standard office equipment and computer systemsLegal and Employment RequirementsMust possess a valid driver's license, maintain a satisfactory driving record, and provide proof of automobile insuranceMust not have been convicted of child abuse or neglect, or a felony involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years immediately preceding the date of hireMust not be listed on the central registry as a perpetrator of child abuse or neglectMust comply with all background check and licensing requirements applicable to the positionCommitment to Mission and ValuesThe Foster Home Licensing Specialist will follow and uphold the agency's Vision and Mission Statement, including its commitment to inclusion, diversity, and strength-based services.Equal Employment Opportunity StatementHands Across The Water does not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment with respect to hire, tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, or any matter directly or indirectly related to employment, because of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, height, weight, familial or marital status, mental or physical ability, socioeconomic status, military service obligation, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.