Adoptions Specialist

An Adoption Specialist position plays a pivotal role in finalizing loving families with children in need of a forever home. The position involves a combination of social work, case management, and direct interaction with families and children.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· To provide adoption case work for children with a goal of Adoption where termination of parental rights has been achieved

· Complete timely adoption home studies and background checks for prospective adoptive families (this includes OCS requests received from other counties; refer to AARC, if necessary

· Complete comprehensive child studies on each child on case load and ensure adoption tab is completed in FSFN

· Complete adoption subsidy files for each child being adopted and submit enhanced subsidy packets, when needed

· Refer to attorney and issue consents when appropriate

· Attend all court hearings for children on case load

· Request any adoption related required MDTs or other case staffings involving the child(ren) and family once assigned to the case

· Coordinate with system professionals to ensure all paperwork and procedures are compliant with local and federal laws

· Facilitate pre-adoption visits, if necessary, and manage interactions between children and prospective families

· Provide recommendation for referrals to primary case manager

· Maintain detailed case records and reports in FSFN

· Display understanding of, and sensitivity to, service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics

· Conduct regular home visits to monitor progress of the children/ families in the permanency process

· Provide a list of post-adoption support and resources to families

A Bachelor’s Degree from a four-year accredited college or university with a minimum of one (1) year of child welfare related experience OR an advanced degree in social work or a comparable human service field. Must hold a current Child Welfare Certification. At least one year of experience working within the Child Welfare System. Must have a working knowledge of community services in the local tri-county area. Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships. Adoption Competency training (preferred).