Family Support Specialist

PAT Illinois; Vandalia (IL); On-site; USD 33,300 - 40,700; Full time

Job summary

PAT Illinois is seeking a Family Support Specialist in Vandalia, Illinois, to support families during critical stages of early development. Your role will involve in-home visits, planning developmentally appropriate activities, and providing case management services for young children and families. A Bachelor’s Degree in a related field or equivalent experience is preferred, along with the Parents as Teachers Certification. The base salary is $37,000 with adjustments based on experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development, Family/Social Services, or related field preferred or 2+ years of experience working with young children and families.
• Experience working with young children, parents, and at-risk populations is essential.
• Parents as Teachers Certification is required; training available after hire.
• Proficient computer skills and a valid driver’s license are required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver weekly in-home visits focused on child development and family support.
• Design and coordinate developmentally appropriate experiences tailored to family needs.
• Organize and lead scheduled group interactions for enrolled families.
• Support pregnant women, infants, and toddlers through comprehensive social and educational services.

Skills

Experience working with young children

Case management

Planning and coordinating activities

Computer proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development or related field

Tools

Parents as Teachers curriculum

Job description

Make a lasting impact where it matters most. We are looking for a passionate advocate to join our team and support families during the most critical stages of early development. As a Family Support Specialist, you won’t just be a visitor; you’ll be a mentor and a partner, using the Parents as Teachers curriculum to empower caregivers, celebrate developmental milestones, and ensure every child in our community has a clear path to school readiness and a bright future.

Primary Responsibilities

• Home Visitation: Deliver weekly in-home visits focused on child development and family support.
• Planning: Design and coordinate developmentally appropriate experiences tailored to individual family needs and program goals.
• Group Activities: Organize and lead scheduled group interactions for enrolled families.
• Case Management: Support pregnant women, infants, and toddlers through comprehensive social and educational services.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development, Family/Social Services, or related field (preferred) OR 2+ years of experience working with young children and families.
• Experience: Experience working with young children, parents, and at-risk populations.
• Certification: Parents as Teachers Certification (required; training available after hire).
• Requirements: Proficient computer skills, a valid driver’s license, and reliable transportation.

Compensation

• Salary & Benefits: Base salary of $37,000 , with adjustments based on the candidate’s qualifications, years of experience, and agency pay scales.