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
History
The Spanish Community Center (SCC) has a special place in Will County’s history as an example of what a small group of committed individuals can do to make a difference.
Over 50 years ago, the Adler, Maher, and Hernandez personally responded to the needs of the migrant community in Joliet by founding the SCC out of a house located at 205 Herkimer St, before relocating to its current location in the early 1980's.
Today, the SCC stays true to its mission of serving as Will County’s only bilingual one-stop shop of social and educational services. Although originally focused on Spanish-speaking peoples, we proudly serve individuals of all backgrounds.
Our Mission
The Spanish Community Center helps improve the life for Latinos, immigrants, and low income people through educational and social services.
Our Vision
The Spanish Community Center is a bridge to the well-being of all members in an inclusive and engaged community.
Our Values
- Excellence
- Trust through integrity
- Welcoming environment through empathy and respect for all
- Belief in the potential of each individual
- Advocacy for and with the community
- The power of a diverse local community