Family Specialist

Family Specialist

Join to apply for the Family Specialist role at Innovative Network of Knowledge
. 3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants.

• Required:
  
  Certificate or credential in social work, human services, family services, counseling, or related field.
• Or high‑school diploma and a family services certificate obtained within 18 months of employment.

• Required:
  
  Experience working with diverse families in low‑income communities and background in evidence‑based strategies to strengthen outcomes for children and families.
• Preferred:
  Bachelor’s degree in social work, bilingual (Spanish), and three (3) years of case management experience.

• Determine, verify, and document eligibility, recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance (ERSEA) of program participants in accordance with agency and federal policy.
• Assist families with eligible children in the service area, including children with disabilities, in the application process.
• Ensure program compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Maintain funded enrollment level, filling slots within 30 days of vacancy.
• Monitor and address attendance for each assigned child, including direct contact with parents and intensive case management.
• Collaborate with families in their preferred language to engage them in a family partnership process that identifies needs, strengths, goals, and resources.
• Meet with families to establish Family Service Plans (FSP) and review progress, evaluate/revise goals, and provide resource referrals.
• Coordinate community referrals to maximize resources and avoid duplication of effort or services.
• Complete initial training on eligibility determinations within 90 days of hire and subsequent professional development training as indicated by program management.
• Ensure 100% enrollment and compliance with eligibility criteria.
• Schedule regular meetings and home visits to ensure a partnership between staff and families.
• Keep child records complete, current, and organized, documenting case notes within 24 hours of meeting/home visit.
• Prepare and submit required reports prior to deadlines.

• Coordinate with teachers, families, and other resources to share information and ensure coordinated parent, family, and community engagement strategies.
• Identify and promote opportunities for parents to participate in parenting and professional skills development.
• Participate in the development and implementation of family and community engagement activities and special events.
• Support development of community and self‑assessments, grant applications, budgets, and required reports in accordance with INK and Office of Head Start timelines.
• Perform other job duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of applicable state and federal Head Start regulations, performance standards, and guidelines.
• Strong written communication skills to document child files with reports and case notes.
• Strong oral communication skills to communicate with families in their preferred language, or through an interpreter.
• Ability to incorporate the unique cultural, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds of families.
• Sound judgment in the protection of confidential information.
• Ability to organize and prioritize duties and responsibilities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
• Ability to work independently.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Complete and pass a health examination.
• Confirm work eligibility status.
• Successfully pass a driving history check.
• Clear criminal background check.
• Required to lift up to 60 pounds.
• Required to stand, sit on the floor, bend, squat, kneel, lift children, and engage with children.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and other hazards such as cigarette smoke, pets, at-risk neighborhoods.
• Travel up to 50% by car, bus, airplane, or train may be required (including some overnight travel).
• Some evenings and weekend work may occasionally be required for events such as home visits and community events.

INK is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. You may apply even if your experience and education do not align perfectly with every requirement.

INK is an Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) Employer and will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. The position requires annual Influenza vaccination or an approved exemption.

In accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable federal and state laws…the policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.

Entry level

Full‑time

Health Care Provider