Permanency Navigator

Position: STEPS Permanency Navigator
Job Summary

The STEPS Permanency Navigator will conduct outreach activities in support of adoptive and SPC families in Kentucky. Research has shown families typically do not reach out for support related to their adoption or guardianship until they feel discouraged and hopeless. The Permanency Navigator will address this by initiating contact with families on a consistent basis to normalize communication and to avail the family of supports and services.

These services will be open to families at any time but will also be highlighted during targeted outreach with families during those times that are predicted as higher need or stress. The goal will be to stabilize the family while addressing their needs through information and referral to avoid disruptions and re-entry into out-of-home care.

Applicants must reside in one of the following states:

* Kentucky

* Indiana

* Ohio

* Tennessee

* Missouri

* Virginia

* West Virginia

Essential Core Functions:

Outreach and Caregiver Support

* Serve as the dedicated Permanency Navigator for assigned families.

* Conduct timely outreach to caregivers, via phone call, text, email or mail based on prioritized status of family and need for outreach

* Complete a family strengths / needs /well-being assessment to help identify areas of current or predicted future needs

* Educate caregivers about regional and statewide resources.

* Provide information and referral service for those families requesting connections to community services

* Offer emotional support based on the needs of the families

* Identify families who are in crisis or urgent need of case management support

Regional Collaboration & Resource Coordination

* Cultivate and maintain relationships with agencies and services that support adoptive and SPC families in the community.

* Remain current on local community resources

* Work collaboratively with Adoption Branch Gatekeepers

Data Management, Documentation, and Quality Assurance

* Complete a family strengths / needs / well-being assessment

* Maintain accurate and timely documentation, tracking contact attempts for each family

* Respond timely to requests from DCBS for information needed to complete federal and state reports

* Track and report on outcomes and unmet needs to support program evaluation.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

* Communication:
Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; able to connect with diverse families and partners.

* Organization & Initiative:
Ability to manage a caseload independently while meeting deadlines and maintaining accurate documentation.

* Collaboration:

Proven ability to work effectively with caregivers, state agencies, and community-based partners.

* Service Orientation:
Commitment to family-centered practice, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed care.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience

Lived Experience as an adoptive, kinship, or SPC caregiver or as an adult adoptee; familiarity with Kentucky's child welfare system, DCBS practices, and community-based services; knowledge of and experience with family engagement techniques

Final date to receive applications 02/06/2026 Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.