Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
JOB TITLE Family Caseworker
PROGRAM: Family Advocacy Center (FAC)
REPORTS TO: Family Advocacy Center Director
EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
WORK SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
HOURLY RATE: $25.20
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the guidance of the Family Advocacy Center Program Director, the Family Caseworker will create, provide, and coordinate community-based, holistic services funded by the Department of Children and Family Services (DFCS). This position will work with parents suspected of child abuse or neglect who are being investigated, have a placement case, or are referred for additional services to foster the wellbeing of children and improve family functioning. The Family Caseworker will also assist families who are not involved with DCFS but have specific needs or circumstances that require one-on-one support.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Conduct comprehensive family intakes and assessments to develop individualized support plans
Provide follow-up services to evaluate progress, adjust plans, and address emerging needs
Facilitate referrals and assist families in completing applications for public benefits and community-based services
Conduct home visits and accompany participants to appointments with service providers as needed
Prepare and file court-related documents for family law matters such as custody, child support, and dissolution of marriage
Provide interpretation, accompaniment, or arrange assistance for families navigating complex systems and accessing services
Deliver case management in collaboration with families and internal staff to support identified goals
Maintain regular communication with participants via phone, email, and in-person meetings
Accurately document all case activities in the DCFS database and internal agency systems
Maintain updated records and assist with tracking performance metrics for grants and program deliverables
Establish and maintain strong working relationships with DCFS caseworkers, supervisors, and community service providers to ensure coordinated care
Keep an organized and current directory of local agencies and referral resources to support client advocacy
Participate in community outreach, agency events, and interagency collaborations to strengthen referral networks and service integration
Engage in ongoing professional development to stay informed of best practices in case management, family support, and related fields
MINIMIUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, human services, applied behavioral science, or related field preferred
Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and English
Minimum of 2 years of experience in a social services or related agency
Must be able to pass a criminal background check
Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Experience working with individuals and families in crisis or sensitive situations, with an understanding of trauma-informed, client-centered, and strength-based practices
Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and compassionately across diverse audiences
Professionalism in managing competing priorities and maintaining composure during high-pressure or fast-paced situations
High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic, faith and educational backgrounds
Skilled in conducting assessments and providing support through advocacy and coaching approaches that empower participants
Proficient in Microsoft Office and client databases
PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Regular travel to client homes, partner agencies, and a primary site in Kankakee
Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods
May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and events
BENEFITS Health Insurance Dental Insurance 401k Paid time off