25,227 Child Welfare Specialist jobs in the United States

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.

A cornerstone program is Foster Care, supporting DCFS-referred youth ages 0–21 with safe, nurturing homes and services to help them thrive. Our staff work with foster families and caregivers to promote permanency-either reunification with birth families or long-term alternative placements.

About the Role

As a Foster Care Child Welfare Specialist, you'll support youth in care, coordinate services, and partner with birth families and foster caregivers. You'll work in the field across Cook and surrounding counties, visiting homes, monitoring placements, and providing consistent care. This trauma-informed, mission-driven role focuses on long-term permanency and family reunification.

In this role, you will:

• Manage cases for youth and families, including placement, visitation, and permanency planning
• Conduct in-home visits and support foster caregivers
• Attend court hearings and administrative reviews
• Collaborate with educators, service providers, and legal professionals
• Maintain accurate case documentation
• Support foster parents and engage birth families in reunification
• Participate in on-call rotation and supervision
• Apply trauma-informed care principles in all interactions

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field
• Valid Illinois driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance
• Child Welfare Employee Licensure
• Willingness to work in a field-based role and be on-call on a rotating basis

Additional Information

This position is based out of our Stewart campus (400 W 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60620). Typical hours Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, with occasional evenings/on-call.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $53,800–$9,000/year, based on experience.
• Average of 17–25 days PTO + 9 holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Free life insurance (2x salary)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral bonus up to $1 500

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

Lawrence Hall encourages applications from candidates who may not meet every qualification. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V).

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.

#nowhiring

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

Are you ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and children? LSF is seeking compassionate and dedicated Child Welfare Specialists to join our team.

Purpose & Impact:

As a Child Welfare Specialist, you will provide comprehensive case management services to families and children, establishing trusting relationships and living the agency's core values to enhance their well-being.

Essential Functions:

• Promptly accept all cases assigned and meet with children and identified parents within specified timeframes to conduct thorough family assessments.
• Collaborate with families and relevant parties to develop customized case plans that address the unique strengths and needs of each situation, aiming for reunification or other forms of permanency.
• Conduct regular home visits to ensure the safety and welfare of children, with a set frequency minimum and at least one unannounced visit each quarter.
• Document all case activities accurately in the Florida Safe Families Network (FSFN) within specified deadlines, maintaining organized physical case files.
• Facilitate timely service requests and maintain an up-to-date knowledge of community resources to support families effectively.
• Prepare and attend court hearings and case staffings, providing necessary documentation and participation as required.
• Perform ongoing child safety assessments and develop safety plans, as well as coordinate emergency services when necessary.
• Engage in diligent searches for parents and family members, thoroughly documenting efforts made in this regard.
• Conduct home studies and provide essential background information to prospective caregivers to ensure the best placement decisions.
• Transport children and assist with all Independent Living functions as required.
• Attend mandatory training sessions and staff meetings to stay updated on best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Act as an on-call Case Manager when scheduled, providing necessary support to team members and families.
• Work collaboratively with various program directors and staff, ensuring a unified approach to fulfilling the agency's mission.
• Manage time effectively to meet all deadlines and uphold best practices in line with Florida Statutes and Agency policies.
• Exhibit courtesy, respect, and effective communication with clients, co-workers, and the community at large.
• Demonstrate teamwork by positively contributing to organizational goals and maintaining a culture of safety and confidentiality.

Qualifications:

Physical Requirements:

• Valid Florida Driver's License and Insurance.
• Able to travel locally and attend trainings and conferences as needed.
• Proficient in using a computer and completing written documentation.
• Capable of adapting to flexible schedules and some light lifting as required.
• Certification in First Aid/CPR and crisis intervention is preferred.

Education/Experience:

• Minimum of one year relevant experience required; certification within one year is necessary.
• A bachelor's degree in a Human Services field is required; a degree in Social Work is preferred.

Skills/Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Experience with Microsoft Office programs (Word and Excel).
• Ability to understand case ownership responsibilities related to child welfare.
• Sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of service populations.

Why work for LSF?

Join a purpose-driven team at LSF, where you can contribute to transforming the lives of families in need across Florida. Enjoy growth opportunities within our 60+ programs while making a significant impact.

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• 24/7 Telehealth access to healthcare providers.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Employer-paid life insurance (1X salary).
• 13 paid holidays plus an additional floating holiday.
• Generous PTO starting at 16 days annually.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match or student loan repayment reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

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.

• Investigate reports of child abuse, neglect, and dependency.
• Assess the safety and well-being of children and families.
• Develop and implement case plans in collaboration with families and relevant agencies.
• Provide case management services, including counseling, referrals, and support.
• Conduct home visits and interviews with children, parents, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate services with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
• Prepare court reports and testify in legal proceedings when required.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records.
• Advocate for the needs of children and families within the legal and social service systems.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in child welfare or a related field.
• Knowledge of child development, family dynamics, and relevant legal statutes.
• Strong interviewing, assessment, and case management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in using case management software and standard office applications.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for fieldwork.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Demonstrated commitment to child advocacy and social justice.

This position is located in Durant, Oklahoma

Child Welfare Specialist IV - H23D

Annual Salary: $52,217.89 + Full State Employee Benefits

Applicants who possess a Master's Degree in Social Work will be entitled to a salary incentive of an additional 5%.

On-call positions will receive an additional bonus ranging from $00 to 150 every two weeks, depending on responsibilities.

Hours worked may include extended hours and/or weekends.

Travel is EXTENSIVE. Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain required car insurance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's Degree plus one year of experience in professional social work in child welfare programs.
• OR a Bachelors Degree plus two years experience as a Child Welfare Specialist
• OR Three years of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.

• Lead worker and mentor to a unit of lower-level Child Welfare Specialists within Child Protective Services, Family Centered Services, and Permanency Planning. May also serve as a backup supervisor.
• Serves as a team leader in staff meetings, provides ongoing case consultation, and advises and trains lower-level Child Welfare Specialists in case management and interpretation of policies and procedures.
• May assist in the coordination efforts of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
• Carry complex and difficult caseloads and/or are assigned responsibilities involving case consultation.
• Monitors investigations and individualized service plans and reviews court reports.

This position is located in Wagoner, Oklahoma

Child Welfare Specialist IV - H23D

Annual Salary: $52,217.89 + Full State Employee Benefits

Applicants who possess a Master's Degree in Social Work will be entitled to a salary incentive of an additional 5%.

On-call positions will receive an additional bonus ranging from $00 to 150 every two weeks, depending on responsibilities.

Travel is EXTENSIVE. Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain required car insurance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's Degree plus one year of experience in professional social work in child welfare programs.
• OR a Bachelors Degree plus two years experience as a Child Welfare Specialist
• OR Three years of experience as a Child Welfare Specialist.

• Lead worker and mentor to a unit of lower-level Child Welfare Specialists within Permanency Planning. May also serve as a backup supervisor.
• Serves as a team leader in staff meetings, provides ongoing case consultation, and advises and trains lower-level Child Welfare Specialists in case management and interpretation of policies and procedures.
• May assist in the coordination efforts of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
• Carry complex and difficult caseloads and/or are assigned responsibilities involving case consultation.
• Monitors investigations and individualized service plans and reviews court reports.

• Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Social Work or Related Field
• Two (2) or more years experience in child welfare, preferrably experience with emotionally and/or behaviorally disturbed youth and their families.

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Maturity and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences in clients, staff and families served
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work within a treatment team
• Ability to handle job related manners in a professional, diplomatic and confidential manner.

• Hearing and speaking ability which allows for effective oral communication of information
• Ability to physically transport self and clients to various locations
• Physical and emotional stamina to effectively handle job related issues and stress
• Ability to physically move kids' items, including some heavy items to apartments, i.e. furniture

• PTO (paid-time-off) accrual 3 weeks first year (full-time)
• 9 paid holidays
• 1 floating holiday
• Sick Leave accrual 12 days per year (full-time)
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• 401K with company match
• Company paid life insurance, STD and LTD
• Supplemental life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Opportunity to Further Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology or related field is required.
• 2 or more years experience in child welfare preferred.
• Experience or other training preparing an individual to work with families and youth involved with DCFS.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Maturity and sensitivity to cultural and individual differences in clients, staff, foster parents and families served.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work within a treatment team.
• Ability to handle job related manners in a professional, diplomatic and confidential manner.
• Thorough knowledge of community resources and services.
• Ability to organize and execute responsibilities in an independent manner.
• Hearing and speaking ability which allows for effective oral communication of information.
• Ability to physically transport self and clients to various locations.
• Physical and emotional stamina to effectively handle job related issues and stress.
  
  Benefits:
• PTO (paid-time-off) accrual 3 weeks first year (full-time)
• 9 paid holidays
• 1 floating holiday
• Sick Leave accrual 12 days per year (full-time)
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Traditional and Roth 401K option with company match
• Company paid life insurance, STD and LTD
• Supplemental life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Opportunity to Further Education