Senior Foster Care & Adoption Specialist

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

Loudoun County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country, known for its excellent quality of life and strong economy, while embracing its historic presence. Located 35 miles west of Washington DC, Loudoun County offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Loudoun County Department of Family Services seeks a dedicated, professional candidate for its Senior Foster Care & Adoption Specialist role. The successful candidate will join the prevention and protection services division and the diverse department that envisions better health, safety, and well-being for all. The Department supports individuals and families in the community to live their best lives while advocating for those most vulnerable and respecting their right to self-determination.

The Senior Specialist will be the team lead within the Foster Care and Adoption Unit, providing critical senior-level guidance, oversight, and expertise. In this capacity, the Senior Specialist will mentor and train Foster Care and Adoption Specialists and interns, ensuring adherence to policies, procedures, and best practices. The Senior Specialist will also provide leadership on clinical issues, helping staff navigate complex cases, apply trauma-informed approaches, and ensure that service delivery aligns with the latest standards of care.
Key Responsibilities:

• Effectively manages the program's complex cases by conducting thorough assessments to better understand the unique circumstances and needs of each child and family. This includes evaluating various social, emotional, educational, behavioral, and health-related factors.
• Develops comprehensive, culturally sensitive, tailored service plans that address identified needs.
  
• Facilitates access to appropriate resources and services by coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including healthcare providers, schools, behavioral health organizations, and community partners.
  
• Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of interventions and services, adjusting as necessary to optimize outcomes.
  
• Provides ongoing support and guidance tailored to the individual needs and professional development of Foster Care and Adoption Specialists, training and mentoring them on policies, procedures, and clinical issues.
  
• Regularly reviews staff's completed work, providing constructive feedback that fosters professional growth and improves service delivery, including case documentation and assessments, ensuring adherence to mandates.
  
• Attends Family Partnership Meetings alongside Specialists to mentor staff on case planning and provide guidance when needed.
  
• Maintains thorough documentation in the automated system by entering case information and uploading documents to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
  
• Completes adoption reports and other required paperwork, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory standards.
  
• Regularly reviews case records and prepares them for audits.
  
• Consults with county attorneys and provides thorough and accurate court testimony.
  
  Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.
  

Bachelor's degree required, with major coursework in a Human Services field preferred; AND, three (3) years of directly related experience in a human services area.
Preferred:
Bi-lingual skills in Spanish and English preferred.

Pass pre-employment background checks to include criminal, fingerprinting, credit, CPS/APS, and DMV checks. Valid driver's license and good driving record (driving records may be reviewed annually for continued qualification).
Hold or obtain certifications such as CPR if required for assigned position. Obtain specific training such as CPS/Foster Care/APS state training as required or desired for assigned area.