Foster Care Family Support Specialist

Lawrence Hall; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 27,028 - 30,307; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Average of 17-25 days PTO and 9 holidays

Medical insurance options

401(k) with employer match

Employee Assistance Program

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Job summary

A nonprofit social services agency in Chicago is seeking a Family Support Specialist to provide direct support to children, youth, and foster families. Responsibilities include transporting youth, supervising family visits, and mentoring. Candidates should possess a high school diploma, a valid driver’s license, and strong communication skills, with a bachelor's degree preferred. The role offers an hourly wage between $19.62 and $22.00, plus benefits such as PTO, medical, and wellness programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license and reliable vehicle needed.
• Strong communication skills and basic computer proficiency required.

Responsibilities

• Provide transportation for youth to various appointments.
• Supervise and document parent-child and sibling visits.
• Support children with daily living activities and personal care.
• Act as a role model and provide respite care for foster families.
• Assist caseworkers with home visits and stabilization services.
• Complete documentation and reports as required.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Basic computer proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in social services or related field

Tools

Valid Illinois driver’s license

Reliable vehicle

Job description

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma.

Our cornerstone Foster Care program connects DCFS-referred youth ages 0 - 21 with safe, nurturing homes and the comprehensive services they need to thrive. Whether supporting Traditional, Specialized, or Adolescent Foster Care, our staff work alongside foster families and caregivers to help young people reach permanency—whether that’s reunification with their birth family or a long-term alternative caregiver.

About the Role

As a Family Support Specialist, you’ll be the steady support children, youth, and foster families need. From transporting children to visits, to mentoring, to providing respite care, you’ll play a hands‑on role in helping youth build safety and stability. This is a great opportunity for someone who is compassionate, flexible, and ready to make a positive impact every day.

What You’ll Do

• Provide transportation for youth to school, family visits, therapy, and other appointments.
• Supervise and document parent‑child and sibling visits.
• Support children and youth with daily living activities, personal care, and mentoring.
• Act as a role model and provide respite care for foster families.
• Assist caseworkers with home visits and provide stabilization services as needed.
• Complete documentation and reports in line with agency and DCFS requirements.

Who we’re looking for

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and insurance.
• Strong communication skills and basic computer proficiency.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in social services or related field.
• At least 1 year of experience as a child care worker or in a similar role.
• Experience working with youth and families impacted by trauma.

Additional Information

This position is based out of our Stewart campus (400 W 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60620). Full‑time schedule; some evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required based on program needs. Frequent travel within Chicago using agency or personal vehicle. Active role requiring lifting (up to 50 lbs), kneeling, and installing car seats.

Compensation & Benefits

Hourly rate of $19.62 – $22.00, based on experience.

• Average of 17‑25 days PTO + 9 holidays
• Medical insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Dental insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto‑vesting
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – Medical and Dependent Care
• Pre‑tax Commuter benefits – Parking and Transit
• 100% employer‑paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• 100% employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
• Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
• Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness

How to Apply

Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you!

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V