Foster Care Navigator AFPRR

Judson Center; Michigan; On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Judson Center in Michigan is seeking a Foster Care Navigator to provide direct support and guidance to current and prospective foster parents. The role requires a thorough knowledge of child welfare policies and the ability to work flexibly with families.

The ideal candidate will have personal experience in the child welfare system and excellent communication skills. The position is full-time and includes responsibilities such as assisting families in the licensing process and serving as a liaison with agencies.

Qualifications

• Personal experience with the child welfare system as a licensed foster, adoptive, relative, or kinship caregiver.
• Knowledge of child welfare policies and procedures.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate families.

Responsibilities

• Provide support and guidance to prospective foster parents.
• Assist families in navigating through the licensing process.
• Serve as liaison between families and child placing agencies.

Skills

Culturally competent services

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position: Foster Care Navigator, AFPRR

Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt

Reports to: Regional Resource Team Supervisor

Job Summary

The Foster Care Navigator is responsible for providing direct support and guidance to current and prospective foster parents through in-person contact, telephone contact, and/or email, depending on the needs of the foster parents.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Must be available to prospective foster families and assist them in navigating through the licensing process.
• Serve as liaison between the licensing worker or child placing agency, and the current or prospective foster family when need for clarification.
• Ability to work independently and meet job requirements.
• Ability to Provide Foster Care Licensing Support Services to the Native American Community.
• Provide quality customer service primarily via phone and email.
• Sensitive to the concerns of potential foster parents.
• Ability to establish rapport quickly and effectively with families.
• Ability to identify resources available to adoptive families statewide.
• Ability to share personal experiences with foster care in a professional manner with the public.
• Ability to maintain contract compliance.
• Participates in required trainings.
• Attend all scheduled team meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Personal experience with the child welfare system as a licensed foster, adoptive, relative or kinship caregiver.
• Knowledge of child welfare policies and procedures.
• Involvement in the local foster family community and foster family groups.
• Ability to relate to current and prospective adoptive, foster and kinship families.
• Ability to relate to local DHS and private agency personnel.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate families with whom the Foster Care Navigator works.
• Ability to travel/work statewide as necessary.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to provide culturally competent services that shows sensitivity to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.

Skills Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Michigan Driver’s License, appropriate insurance and use of own vehicle.

Working Conditions

• Works in an office environment and in the community as needed.
• Position may require evening and weekend hours.
• Possible stressful environment working with families and court system.
• Fast paced, enthusiastic and team oriented workplace.