Foster Care & Adoption Family Development Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota; Pine Ridge (SD); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

PTO Frontload 24 Hours

8 Paid Holidays

401(k) 3% match

Health, Dental, Vision plans

Life insurance

Career development

PSLF eligibility

Job summary

Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota is hiring a Family Development Specialist to help families pursue foster care and adoption, and to complete essential home studies with guidance from the Licensing Team.

The role emphasizes client-focused care, collaboration with state agencies, and providing ongoing support to families through the licensing process. Requirements include education and licensure as outlined above.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field with 1–2 years of related experience.
• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA) through the SD Board.
• Must be at least 21 years old and able to pass agency background checks.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to obtain approved driver status.

Responsibilities

• Assist families in navigating the process to become a foster or adoptive resource.
• Complete home study assessments for prospective foster and kinship families pursuing licensing and adoption approval.
• Partner with families to complete the home study process, write the home study assessment, and provide resources and support throughout the process.
• Be a valuable member of the Licensing Team and work collaboratively with South Dakota DSS/CPS.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field

Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA)

Job description

Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota is hiring a Family Development Specialist to help families pursue foster care and adoption, and to complete essential home studies with guidance from the Licensing Team.

The role emphasizes client-focused care, collaboration with state agencies, and providing ongoing support to families through the licensing process. Requirements include education and licensure as outlined above.