Family Preservation Specialist

The Family Preservation Specialist provides intensive, home-based services to families across multiple Indiana counties, including Marion and Lake County
, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). The primary goal of this role is to ensure child safety, prevent out-of-home placement, and strengthen overall family functioning.

Services are family-centered, culturally responsive, and focused on improving coping skills, enhancing family resilience, and supporting safe, stable home environments. This role plays a critical part in preserving families, reducing risk factors, and promoting long-term positive outcomes for children and caregivers.

• Provides home-based services in alignment with DCS Family Preservation Service Standards.
• Conducts comprehensive family assessments to identify strengths, needs, and safety concerns.
• Develops and implements individualized treatment/service plans in collaboration with families and DCS.
• Ensures safety plans are established, monitored, and updated for all identified concerns.
• Completes initial treatment plans within required timelines (e.g., within 30 days of program entry).
• Maintains a minimum of weekly face-to-face contact with families, or more frequently based on assessed needs.
• Monitors progress toward goals and adjusts service plans accordingly.
• Provides in-home support, including parenting education, skill-building, and behavior management strategies.
• Coordinates and connects families to community resources, including mental health, medical, educational, and social services.
• Participates in Child and Family Team Meetings (CFTMs) and collaborates with DCS Family Case Managers (FCMs) and other providers.
• Provides crisis intervention and support as needed.
• Maintains timely and accurate documentation, including progress notes and monthly reports, in accordance with agency and DCS requirements.
• Supports family reunification and preservation efforts in alignment with treatment plans and court orders.
• Attends supervision, training, and team meetings as required.
• Adheres to all agency policies, confidentiality standards, and professional expectations.

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field preferred

• Experience working with children and families preferred
• Experience in home-based, child welfare, or community-based settings strongly preferred

• Strong communication (verbal and written)
• Ability to build rapport and engage families
• Crisis management and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently in community-based settings
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
• Understanding of trauma-informed and strength-based approaches

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current auto insurance required
• Ability to pass background checks and all DCS-required clearances
• CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and occasional weekends

This position requires a flexible schedule to meet families' needs.

• Services are primarily delivered in the home and community
• Typical working hours range between 9:00 AM and 7:30 PM based on client availability
• Evening hours are regularly required
• Occasional weekend availability may be needed
• Schedule will vary based on caseload and program demands
• Home-based and community-based service delivery
• Frequent local travel required
• A combination of field work, documentation, and virtual communication