Family Development Specialist

SUMMARY:

The Family Development Specialist is responsible for the training, evaluation and screening of potential resource parents and kinship homes. This includes conducting precertification sessions, completing family profiles, completing required documentation for family approvals, and providing home recertifications as assigned.

After introduction period, a hybrid work schedule is expected. The office assignment is in Southampton, Pa but the majority of the field work is in the Philadelphia region.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A Bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in the field of Social Work or a related field. Experience in child welfare, casework, or childcare is beneficial. Experience working with children and families is preferred.

The Family Development Specialist plays a vital role in supporting the agency’s mission to ensure safe, stable, and nurturing homes for children and families. This position is responsible for the training, evaluation, and screening of potential resource parents and kinship homes. The Specialist conducts pre-certification sessions, develops comprehensive family profiles, completes required documentation for family approvals, and manages home recertifications as assigned.

After an initial orientation period, this position offers a hybrid work schedule, with office-based responsibilities in Southampton, PA, and the majority of fieldwork conducted throughout the Philadelphia region.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct training sessions for prospective resource and kinship caregivers, ensuring compliance with agency and state requirements.
• Evaluate applicants through home studies, interviews, background checks, and reference reviews.
• Prepare thorough family profiles and documentation to support approval and certification decisions.
• Provide ongoing assessment and recertification for approved families as required.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential case records in accordance with agency and state guidelines.
• Collaborate with internal teams, social workers, and community partners to support the placement and retention of qualified families.
• Support caregivers through guidance, resources, and ongoing communication to ensure successful placements.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field.
• Prior experience in child welfare, casework, or childcare is beneficial.
• Experience working directly with children and families is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of foster care and kinship care regulations is a plus.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage families from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent organizational and documentation abilities.
• Empathy, sound judgment, and cultural sensitivity in family assessments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management systems.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required for field visits.

Work Environment:

This role involves a combination of office-based administrative work and in-person field visits throughout the Philadelphia region. Flexible scheduling may be required to accommodate family needs and training sessions.