#nowhiring
Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.
LSF is seeking a passionate Child Welfare Specialist to make a positive impact in the lives of children and families.
Purpose & Impact:
This role is designed for professionals who possess social service skills and a commitment to fostering a culturally sensitive, performance-driven culture in child welfare.
Essential Functions:
- Support the case management supervisor in achieving team and performance goals.
- Manage a caseload of children and families, ensuring timely progress on dependency milestones.
- Quickly assess the safety of children in their residences and complete necessary Family Assessments.
- Collaborate with families and relevant parties to negotiate and develop effective case plans aimed at reunification or other permanency options.
- Conduct regular visits to children, ensuring compliance with required frequencies and documenting findings.
- Accurately document all activities in the Florida Safe Families Network database within 48 hours.
- Facilitate service requests and maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources for effective referrals.
- Prepare and submit essential court documentation and participate in court activities as needed.
- Conduct child safety assessments and develop safety plans as necessary.
- Arrange emergency placements and services when required.
- Undertake diligent searches for family members when necessary, documenting all efforts.
- Conduct home studies for prospective placements and provide necessary background information to caregivers.
- Transport children and supervise visits as needed.
- Complete all Independent Living functions as required.
- Attend and engage in all required training and meetings.
- Be available as an on-call Case Manager as scheduled.
- Prioritize and complete all work assignments by established deadlines.
All duties adhere to the following standards:
- Treat all interactions with courtesy, respect, and dignity.
- Maintain effective communication with supervisors and colleagues.
- Foster teamwork within the agency and support the organization's goals.
- Observe safety procedures in the workplace.
- Complete necessary training to maintain certification status.
- Uphold confidentiality guidelines.
- Respond promptly to on-call responsibilities.
Additional Responsibilities:
Perform related duties and special assignments as required.
Physical Requirements:
- High energy, flexibility for irregular hours, and the ability to travel as needed.
- Valid driver's license and appropriate auto liability insurance are required.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field is required; a degree in Social Work is preferred.
Experience:
A minimum of one year of relevant experience is needed, with a child welfare certification to be achieved within one year of hire.
Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Leadership skills to drive team objectives.
- Professionalism in high-stress environments.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, especially Word and Excel.
- Ability to travel as necessary for job duties.
- Understanding of comprehensive case management responsibilities.
Other:
Must demonstrate sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of the service population.
Principal Accountabilities:
- Reports directly and follows directives from the Case Management Supervisor.
- Collaborates effectively with Program Directors, other Case Managers, and agency support staff.
- Manages time efficiently to complete home visits, documentation, and court requirements as necessary.
- Adheres to Florida statutes and policies while managing cases.
Why work for LSF?
LSF operates 60 programs throughout the state of Florida, serving diverse populations in need. Becoming part of the LSF community means transforming the lives of those in need while also finding opportunities for personal and professional growth within the organization.
Amazing benefits package includes:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
- 24/7 Telehealth services.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Employer-paid life insurance.
- 13 paid holidays plus one floating holiday.
- Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 days annually).
- 403(b) Retirement plan with employer match or student loan repayment reimbursement.
- Tuition reimbursement.
LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer: This employer notifies applicants of their rights under federal employment laws.