Adoption Specialist ~ LAS Lansing Area

Samaritas; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Legacy Adoption Services is seeking an Adoption Specialist to provide comprehensive case management for children and adoptive families. You will guide families through readiness, placement, and finalization with attention to regulatory standards.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s in Social Work and Michigan licensure preferred; a minimum of one year in adoption services or child welfare is valued. This is a full-time role in the Lansing area with a strong impact on permanency outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field required.
• State of Michigan licensure preferred.
• At least one year of experience in adoption services or child welfare preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage adoption planning and case management throughout the process.
• Coordinate matching and placement with families.
• Attend legal and court proceedings and complete required documents.
• Collaborate with foster care staff, agencies, and DHS.
• Maintain accurate case records and provide post-placement support.

Skills

Case management

Communication

Documentation

Relationship building

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work

Michigan licensure preferred

Job description

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Location: Lansing area
Employment Type: Full time
Pay: $43,888 yearly salary

Help Children Find Permanency. Support Families for Life.

Are you passionate about helping children achieve safe, stable, and permanent homes? Join Legacy Adoption Services as an Adoption Specialist and play a vital role in guiding children and families through the adoption journey.

In this role, you will provide advanced case management, coordinate placements, and support adoptive families—making a lasting impact on the lives of children in need of permanency.

About Legacy Adoption Services

Legacy Adoption Services (LAS) is a trusted adoption provider in Michigan, formed through a long-standing partnership between Samaritas and Wellspring Lutheran Services. For over four decades, LAS has supported children who cannot be raised by their birth families by connecting them with safe, loving adoptive homes.

We are committed to providing compassionate, responsive, and high-quality services that create stability and lasting family connections.

About the Role

The Adoption Specialist provides comprehensive case management services to children and adoptive families, ensuring all services meet contractual, regulatory, and accreditation standards. This role supports the full adoption process, from family preparation through finalization and post-placement services.

What You’ll Do

Adoption Planning and Case Management

• Manage a caseload of children and families throughout the adoption process
• Maintain knowledge of adoption regulations, policies, and best practices
• Prepare, assess, and support families through the adoption readiness process

Matching and Placement Coordination

• Coordinate the matching process between children and prospective adoptive families
• Facilitate pre-placement planning and transition activities
• Coordinate placement logistics, including transportation of children as needed

Legal and Court Involvement

• Attend court hearings, case conferences, and required meetings
• Complete all legal documentation and requirements for adoption finalization
• Ensure compliance with all state and agency regulations

Collaboration and Partnerships

• Work closely with foster care staff, adoption agencies, and the Department of Health and Human Services
• Participate in recruitment and community engagement activities

Documentation and Post-Placement Support

• Maintain accurate, timely case records and reports
• Track client progress and outcomes in accordance with program standards
• Provide post-placement services and ongoing support to adoptive families

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field required
• State of Michigan licensure preferred

Experience

• At least one year of experience in adoption services, child welfare, or a related field preferred

Skills and Knowledge

• Strong understanding of child welfare and adoption processes
• Ability to manage complex cases and multiple priorities
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Attention to detail and strong documentation abilities
• Commitment to supporting children and families through permanent placement

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record
• Reliable transportation and proof of automobile insurance
• Ability to travel locally as needed

Why Join Legacy Adoption Services

• Make a lasting impact by helping children find permanent, loving homes
• Work in a mission-driven, collaborative environment
• Be part of a long-standing, respected adoption program
• Grow your career in child welfare and adoption services

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