Foster Care Licensing Specialist

Bethany; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan with employer match

Generous time off including sick leave

Access to training and professional development

Employee assistance and wellness program

Job summary

Bethany in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking a Foster Care Licensing Specialist committed to ensuring children are safe and connected in loving environments. This role involves recruiting and supporting foster parents with various responsibilities including training and ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Ideal candidates have a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services along with strong communication skills and a commitment to support. The position provides access to training, professional development, and a supportive team environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must pass a criminal history screen and maintain a reliable vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Assist in recruiting foster parents and auditing files.
• Facilitate orientation sessions for prospective foster parents.
• Ensure compliance with licensing requirements and support foster homes.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Customer service

Independent work

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field

Master’s degree in Human Services (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Information

Job Category: Social Services - Domestic Programs
Requisition Number: FCLIC001485
Posted: July 1, 2026
Full-Time

Location

MI-GR-901 Eastern
901 Eastern Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

Rooted in our Christian faith, Bethany Christian Services works to ensure children are safe, loved, and connected through family. Across 29 states, we strengthen families, support foster care and adoption, and walk alongside refugees with compassion. Here, living out your faith means using your gifts to bring hope and make a lasting impact.

As a Foster Care Licensing Specialist, you’ll be part of a foster parent’s Bethany team, supporting them and the child in their care. You’ll train, equip, and help connect foster parents to community resources to meet the child’s needs.

How Your Role Makes a Difference

• Assist in the development and follow-through process on innovative and assertive recruitment techniques for foster parents and minority foster parents
• Facilitate orientation sessions throughout the year
• Consistently audit and review prospective family files to ensure all paperwork is being received and has not expired
• Review and audit foster home files to ensure adherence to licensing requirements
• Develop and coordinate an efficient, informative orientation for prospective foster parents
• Work closely with prospective foster parents as they go through initial screening and licensing
• Closely monitor the relicensing of foster homes within the program
• Review referral information to ensure the appropriate placement in out-of-home placements and coordinate with foster care staff and supervisor, as necessary
• Serve as a liaison to caseworkers and/or supervisors for activities with the foster homes and the community
• Ensure foster home licensing, recruitment, and placement practices align with state and federal regulations
• Inform caseworkers on licensing and placement regulations
• Communicate rule violations to the caseworker and foster parent in a timely manner, while also working with them to correct violations through special evaluations
• Assist the Training and Development Coordinator and the Recruitment Specialist in activities to include but not limited to the annual recognition events and other efforts to retain foster parents
• Essential job responsibilities may vary based on the specific needs of each program/department
• May be required or asked to participate in a Bethany sponsored event
• Complete other duties as assigned

What Will Make You Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field of study from an accredited college
• Master’s degree in Human Services or related field of study from an accredited college, preferred
• Prior experience working in foster care or child welfare, a plus
• Demonstrated ability with interviewing, placement, diagnostic and family assessment skills
• Demonstrated ability to relate well and work well with others
• Eligible to obtain professional licensure in the State of Michigan
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with high initiative
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must have an ability to provide excellent and compassionate customer service
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Must be 21 years old with a valid driver's license with at least 3 years driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage
• Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries
• Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity

We Invest in You

• Experience a team environment with other professionals who are motivated by faith, support one another, pursue excellence, and are in it for the long haul
• Access to training, professional development, and career growth opportunities
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match eligibility
• Generous time off (11 paid holidays, PTO Your Way, paid parental leave, separate sick and paid absence banks)
• Access to education reimbursement for those that qualify
• Comprehensive employee assistance and wellness program

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.