Branch Family Specialist (SW) - Child Welfare

Overview of Kinnect Kinnect is an Ohio-based non-profit organization dedicated to developing KinFirst strategies and delivering programs that strengthen kinship connections and inclusive support networks for families, young people, and children. Kinnect has spent 20 years collaborating with families, public agencies, and private providers to ensure young people and families have the belonging, resources, and relationships they need to thrive. Kinnect’s purpose, vision, and guiding principles center family and kin and promote a KinFirst culture in every aspect of our service delivery and advocacy efforts for families, young people, and children. Overview of the Kinnect to Family Program Kinnect to Family (KTF) engages in urgent, diligent family search and engagement to identify and connect youth in foster care or residential treatment with kin—both biological and chosen—who can provide support and permanency. Position Summary The Kinnect to Family Branch Family Specialist is a full‑time position dedicated to the service of children and families referred to KTF. The role involves diligent searching and relentless engagement to identify potential kinship connections, supports, and placement options for children at risk of foster care placement or in foster care or congregate care. The specialist works under the direction of the KTF Branch Coach, who provides coaching and training. Essential Functions Collaborate with the professional team to identify and connect young people to kin. Intentionally engage and explore permanency with youth. Research and consolidate information from relatives/kin to expand the child’s support system and identify potential kinship caregivers. Document family/kin for each child through Family Finding search activities, including internet and database searches, file reviews, and child & family interviews. Facilitate communication with the team and provide referring agencies with accurate and timely family documentation, including genograms and contact information. Attend or facilitate meetings and court hearings, advocating for relative/kin placement. Complete assessments on the child and family functioning upon referral and conclusion of services to measure success and outcomes. Assist in preparing families for licensure by explaining the process and assisting with home licensing requirements. Maintain accurate files and records for each family served. Education and Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree required; Social Services or related field preferred. Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams using innovative strategies to overcome obstacles. Direct experience in the child welfare field with a basic knowledge of foster care and adoption preferred. Understanding of, or ability to learn, Genopro (family tree/genogram software). Ability to use customer‑service initiatives to work with partner agencies. Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office programs. Possess a valid driver’s license and dependable transportation. Working Conditions Travel required for site and home visits; must have reliable transportation. Flexible schedule, including nights and weekends. Occasional overnight travel. Hybrid work model combining remote and on‑site work. Standard office equipment provided. Hiring Process Background check and drug screening. Criminal convictions will be evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis. Equal Opportunity Employment Kinnect maintains a policy of nondiscrimination toward all employees and applicants for employment. All aspects of employment with us will be governed on the basis of competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or intellectual ability, marital or partnership status, parental or family status, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kinnect