Case Planner - Foster Care

About Us

The House of the Good Shepherd (HGS) has been changing children’s lives for over 150 years. We provide individualized, compassionate care to youth and families through a range of residential, educational, community, and foster care programs across Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and the North Country. Our agency is built on a foundation of empathy, resilience, and the Sanctuary Model of care, which guides our commitment to healing and hope.

What You’ll Do

As a Case Planner, you’ll work directly with families to implement treatment goals and strengthen relationships. This role is hands-on and community-based, requiring flexibility, empathy, and the ability to problem-solve in real time. You’ll deliver in-home services, coordinate care with other providers, support school engagement, and supervise family visitation when needed.

You’ll be a key part of a broader treatment team, participating in planning, case reviews, and documentation. Your work helps ensure children can remain safely in their homes or reunify with their families by connecting them to vital supports and promoting lasting stability.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is compassionate, organized, and committed to supporting families as they work toward their goals. You understand that families may face a variety of challenges, and you bring patience, empathy, and a strengths-based approach to every interaction. This role requires flexibility and a steady presence, but the work is incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, celebrate progress, and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

Qualifications and Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience working in human services, preferably with children and families in a behavioral health setting.
• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Relevant licensure or certification is highly desirable.
• Experience with UCR (Uniform Case Record) documentation is a plus.
• On-call availability is required for 24-hour crisis intervention, with participation in a rotating on-call schedule.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Able to build trust with families facing complex challenges.
• Comfortable providing direct support in homes and community settings.
• Skilled in crisis management, problem-solving, and advocacy.
• Detail-oriented and responsive to documentation and deadlines.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexible and reliable, with a willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Work Schedule and Availability

This position requires flexibility, including non-traditional hours and participation in an on-call rotation. Maintaining adequate staff coverage is essential to ensuring safety and therapeutic consistency.

Hybrid work options are available, allowing for a combination of in-office, in-community, and remote work, depending on the needs of the families and the agency.

Why Work with Us?

We believe supporting our staff is just as important as supporting our families. That’s why we offer:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 403(b) retirement plan with agency match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Opportunities for advancement
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Equal Opportunity Employer

The House of the Good Shepherd is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. HGS encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and those with disabilities. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access throughout the hiring process.