Education Specialist; Foster Care

About the Company

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago‑based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma.

A cornerstone program is Foster Care, connecting DCFS‑referred youth ages 0‑21 with safe homes and services to help them thrive. Our staff support youth and caregivers to achieve permanency – either reunification with birth families or long‑term alternative placements.

As an Education Resource Specialist, you'll guide foster youth toward education and career goals, helping them stay on track when challenges arise. This hybrid field‑and‑office role combines hands‑on support, trauma‑informed care, and collaboration with a passionate, mission‑driven team dedicated to empowering youth.

• Support youth in creating and pursuing education and vocational plans
• Visit youth in homes, schools, and community settings
• Collaborate with foster care teams to align education goals with case plans
• Monitor attendance and progress in school or training programs
• Provide tutoring or connect youth to additional resources
• Problem‑solve with school staff or program providers
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation

• Bachelor's degree in Education or related field; experience working with adolescents or as a teacher/trainer.
• Valid Illinois driver's license and personal vehicle with proof of insurance.
• Ability to pass background and drug screen.
• Strong communication and organization skills.

Full‑time hybrid role with occasional evenings or weekends; travel throughout Cook County for in‑person visits.

• Salary: $42,800–$47,000/year, based on experience
• Average of 17‑25 days PTO + 9 holidays
• Medical insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Dental insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto‑vesting
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – Medical and Dependent Care
• Pre‑tax Commuter benefits – Parking and Transit
• 100% employer‑paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• 100% employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
• Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
• Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you!

Lawrence Hall encourages candidates to apply even if they do not meet every qualification. Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V).

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out‑of‑state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre‑boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre‑boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.