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 second 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
DISCLAIMER
This job description is not intended to be a contract. Duties and responsibilities may change based on organizational needs.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $26.10 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Application Question(s):
- Are you able to fluently read and write in Spanish?
- Are you willing to undergo a background check as a condition of employment?
Education:
Experience:
- relative : 2 years (Required)
Language:
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Joliet, IL 60432 (Required)
Work Location: In person
