Foster Care Specialist

Kvc-Health-Systems; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

KVC Nebraska is seeking a Foster Care Specialist in Lincoln, NE to recruit, train, and support foster families who care for Nebraska's children. The role emphasizes compassionate outreach and community partnership.

You will provide ongoing case support, help families navigate court involvement, and ensure compliance with state regulations while promoting healing and resilience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field; Social Work preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in foster care or with at-risk youth and families.
• Knowledge of Nebraska Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice, and related systems.

Responsibilities

• Ongoing Support (60%): Conduct monthly home visits and weekly phone check-ins. Attend court hearings and advocate for youth and foster parents to ensure the best care is provided.
• Recruiting and Retention (15%): Engage with faith-based organizations and advocacy groups to recruit dedicated foster families and coordinate appreciation events.
• Training (15%): Lead initial and ongoing training sessions to equip foster and kinship parents with trauma-informed care skills.
• Licensing (10%): Ensure all homes remain in compliance with Nebraska state regulations and assist in investigation processes when necessary.

Skills

2+ years foster care experience

Understanding Nebraska Child Welfare

Knowledge of DSM-5 diagnoses

Strong critical thinking & diplomacy

Organizational skills

Independent yet collaborative

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field

Bachelor's in Social Work preferred

Tools

Driver's license

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Foster Care Specialist

Full Time Lincoln, NE, Lincoln, NE, US

5 days ago Requisition ID: 9666

FOSTER CARE SPECIALIST

Make a Meaningful Connection with KVC Nebraska

At KVC Nebraska, we believe that connection is the heart of human service. As a private, nonprofit organization and a national leader in child welfare and behavioral healthcare, we are dedicated to enriching and enhancing the lives of Nebraska families. When you join our team, you are joining a culture that values respect, accountability, and continuous improvement.

OUR WORK WELLBEING SCORE: 83

We do not just care for our clients; we care for our people. Our work wellbeing score of 83 reflects our commitment to a supportive, collaborative, and healthy work environment where diverse perspectives are key to our progress.

THE ROLE

The Foster Care Specialist (FCS) is a vital link in the child welfare system. You will actively recruit, train, and provide ongoing support to the foster families who serve as the foundation of KVC. From hosting community recruitment events to providing 24/7 on-call advocacy for families in crisis, your leadership ensures that every child in our care has the resources and support they need to heal and thrive.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ongoing Support (60%): Conduct monthly home visits and weekly phone check-ins. Attend court hearings and advocate for youth and foster parents to ensure the best care is provided.
• Recruiting and Retention (15%): Engage with faith-based organizations and advocacy groups to recruit dedicated foster families and coordinate appreciation events.
• Training (15%): Lead initial and ongoing training sessions to equip foster and kinship parents with trauma-informed care skills.
• Licensing (10%): Ensure all homes remain in compliance with Nebraska state regulations and assist in investigation processes when necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or a related field. A Bachelor’s in Social Work is preferred.
• Licensure: Valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
• Experience: A minimum of two years successful work experience preferred within the foster care system and/or at-risk youth and families.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Understanding of Nebraska’s Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice, and/or Developmental Disabilities systems.
• Knowledge of psychiatric diagnoses (DSM 5) and strengths-based, solution-focused, home-based interventions.
• Exceptional critical thinking, diplomacy, and organizational skills.
• Ability to stay focused under pressure and manage difficult situations with tact.
• Commitment to KVC values: Integrity, Teamwork, and Open Honest Communication.
• Ability to work independently while fostering a cooperative team environment.

WHY KVC?

We offer a solutions-focused environment where your ideas are valued and your professional growth is supported. We pride ourselves on authenticity and compassion, ensuring our team members have the tools to make a lasting impact.

KVC Nebraska is an equal opportunity employer.