Child Welfare Field Program Specialist; Permanency

Overview

Stronger Families for a Stronger Georgia. The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) is a dynamic state agency responsible for delivering a wide range of services to Georgia's most vulnerable populations. Our mission is to strengthen Georgia by providing individuals and families access to services that promote self-sufficiency, independence, and protect Georgia's vulnerable children and adults.

What we offer. Enjoy a generous benefits package that includes a flexible work schedule, unique training opportunities, employee retirement plan, 401(k) plan and 457 plan, 13 paid holidays, vacation & sick leave, medical, dental, vision, long/short-term care, life insurance, and employee discount programs; in addition to telework opportunities depending upon the position.

Start your career in public service
. The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) is seeking candidates for the position of Child Welfare Field Program Specialist (Permanency).

This position will support DFCS Region 7 and may be housed in any county in Region 7 depending on selected candidates residence and office space availability. Please refer to the regional map here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

JOIN OUR TEAM!!!

Pay Grade: M

Under broad supervision, conducts research involving data collection and analysis, develops and implements policy, and administers child welfare programs. Field Program Specialist staff support and assist regional and county leadership in achieving program outcomes by planning, coordinating, and monitoring regional projects that enhance service delivery to DFCS customers, and provide technical assistance to staff on project-related strategic initiatives.

• Performs job responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Serves as job expert or organization resource in assigned areas.
• Collects and analyzes data related to performance indicators and resources.
• Conduct research, develops social programs, assesses, coordinates and develops awareness of existing services and ensures that duplication is avoided.
• Designs and publishes plans for assessing the needs of the programs and the implementation of the plans.
• Develops and delivers formal and informal training.
• Develops policies and procedures in accordance with laws and regulations related to primary programs.
• Develops social programs, social legislation, or proposals based on demographics, social and economic analysis and the evaluation of pilot projects.
• Identifies and assesses economic and social developments.
• Identifies, plans and implements the development and utilization of local resources.
• May serve as mentor to new supervisors and staff.
• Monitors compliance, evaluates effectiveness and recommends/implements improvements to existing policies.
• Monitors the programmatic and financial activities.
• Provides direction and support for the ongoing operation of specialized programs.
• Provides technical assistance/training to internal and external service providers, developing policy interpretation, contractual services and/or evaluating quality and management.

• Provide consultation on Placement Policy and Practice.
• Assist with Permanency Round tables and Cold Cases.
• Review and Staff Cases with Counties.
• Identify Regional trends and coordinate with CQI for Continuous Quality Improvement.
• Engage in Regional Special Initiatives including Regional Leads of:
  • Hoteling Project
  • Credit Reporting Project
  • Head Start/Early Learning
• Provides direct case consultation to county office staff on complex or difficult cases as well as works on high priority cases.
• Performs other professional responsibilities as assigned.

• Ability to work effectively at multiple levels of the organization and with multiple teams.
• Excellent oral, written, presentation and interpersonal communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited college or university AND four (4) years of professional experience which includes one (1) year in a lead worker, team leader, or supervisory role.

Preference will be given to candidates who, in addition to meeting the minimum qualifications, demonstrate some or all the following education/skills/experience:

• Experience/Knowledge in all social service programs, specifically Foster Care and Placement of the Division of Family and Children Services.
• Experience with providing specialized support and consultation around cases that involves youth with high-level/complex needs.
• Two years (2) of supervisory experience with the Division of Family and Children Services, within CPS or FC programs.

• Must have reliable transportation, proof of auto insurance, a valid state-issued driver’s license, and an acceptable driving history record.

For more detailed information about the Georgia Department Human Services: /

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