Skill Advancement Coach (Hybrid)

Skill Advancement Coach

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (IDCFS) 

Northern Illinois University 

MULTIPLE POSITIONS ACROSS ILLINOIS ARE AVAILABLE

Primary Function  

The Department of Psychology at the College of Liberal arts and Sciences, Northern Illinois University (NIU), invites applications for the position of Skill Advancement Coach within the Psychology Department.

Under the direction of the DCFS Director of the Office of Research and Child Well-Being, the Skill Advancement Coach provides structured, skill-based coaching to supervisors and other staff across DCFS/CWCA. This role strengthens supervisory capacity, improves team performance, and promotes alignment with DCFS values, well-being goals, and implementation science principles. The coach supports supervisors in applying trauma-informed, family-centered, evidence-based and evidence-informed approaches, translating strategic leadership into actionable development plans.

NIU is looking for individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field from an accredited college or university. Minimum of three (3) years of experience in child welfare or related fields (Note: master’s degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience). This is not an academic position on the NIU campus. Some travel is necessary.

With approximately 16,000 students, NIU is one of the largest public universities in the state of Illinois. The Department of Psychology is committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all students, staff, and faculty. NIU’s geographical reach extends beyond its main DeKalb campus (65 miles west of downtown Chicago, 60 miles from the O’Hare International Airport, and 40 miles west of Naperville – a booming community with one of the best school systems in the nation.) to satellite campuses in Naperville, Rockford, Hoffman Estates, and Chicago as well as to students online. Illinois Department of Children and Family Services contracts with the Department of Psychology employs 97 staff across the state of Illinois and is committed to enhancing outcomes for the children and families served.

Background Check: This is a security-sensitive position. Before any offer of employment is made, the University and IDCFS will conduct a pre-employment background check, which includes finger printing, state police check, FBI, and child abuse and neglect (CANTS) background check. 

Application Process: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE MADE ON THE NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY WEBSITE. GO TO NIU JOBS AND SEARCH FOR SKILL ADVANCEMENT COACHING POSITION 

For full consideration, please submit application and documents through NIU online employment system 

Required Applicant Documents  

Cover letter

Resume 

List of References

EEO Statement, Visa Policy, ADA Accommodation, Clery Act Information  

In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employment employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. NIU recognizes Dual Career issues. 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. 

NIU remains committed to ensuring that its recruitment and application procedures include full opportunities for applicants with disabilities. Employment opportunities will not be denied to anyone because of the need to make accommodations for a person’s disability during either the application or interview process. An applicant who believes they require an accommodation to participate in the employment process due to a disability may request that accommodation through the Accommodation Request Form. This form can be obtained by contacting the Office of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ADEI). 

Position Requirements and Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field.
2. Three (3) years of experience in child welfare (case work, supervision, mental health treatment provision to families involved in child welfare, work associated with child welfare), or related fields. A masters degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field can substitute for one (1) year of experience in child welfare. A clinical license (LCP, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Psychology) can substitute for two (2) years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Master’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field.
2. Licensed Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Psychologist. 
3. One (1) year of experience providing staff development, coaching, mentoring, training, or leadership development.
4. One (1) year of experience supervising others in a clinical or child welfare setting.
5. Two (2) years of experience conducting counseling, psychotherapy, or assessments for families involved with IDCFS.
6. Certification in Motivational Interviewing.
7. One (1) year of experience working with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
8. One (1) year of experience working as an IDCFS Investigator.
9. One (1) year of experience working as a Intact/Permanency Worker.
10. Child Welfare Employee License.

Salary range is $65,000 to $73,500. Salary is based on degree, license and number of preferred qualifications.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of Motivational Interviewing

Experience training others in Child Welfare or a Clinical Setting

Experience applying clinical principles associated with traumatized individuals

Involvement/experience with development and implementation of new programs

Teamwork oriented

Effective, engaging communicator

Proficient with internet platforms such as Microsoft Teams and WebEX 

CWEL

Environmental Demands:

• Work will be conducted in person and virtually. Work may be in person 5 days per week, hybrid work is possible, subject to management approval.
• Travel is required, including travel locally and within the state, and the occasional possibility of travelling outside of the state to attend meetings, trainings, and conferences. Some overnight stays may be required.
• Employee may interact with a wide range of client populations, including some who have experienced trauma and exhibit challenges in controlling their emotions.
• A valid driver’s license and transportation for travel are necessary in this position.