Alternative Care Specialist

POSITION TYPE

FULL-TIME

The Alternative Care Specialist works in collaboration with the Service Support team, under the direction of the Alternative Care & Resource Development Manager, the Alternative Care Specialist is a direct resource and liaison for the Network with key collaterals and stakeholders. The Alternative Care Specialist provides consultation and help regarding kinship/customary and specialized foster homes, which are provided by on and off reserve First Nations child welfare agencies, under the Network, and third-party resources.

• Assist Agencies with the development of kinship/customary and specialized foster homes.
• Provide consultation on the foster home appeals process.
• Assist in the emergency placement resource area.
• Act as the direct liaison with the Child Protection Branch, Southern First Nation Agencies and other Authorities.
• Coordinate foster parent training with education and training department.
• Addressing all complaints from and/or about foster parents.
• Addressing all enquiries regarding foster care.
• Assessing and resolving foster parent appeals regarding removal of children from a foster home.
• Assessing and resolving foster parent appeals regarding refusal or revoking of foster home license.
• Supporting agency compliance with licensing standards.
• Request for variances to foster home licenses.
• Assisting agencies with foster parent recruitment.

• BSW or equivalent in social services field; minimum five years child welfare and foster care experience or a combination of experience and education.
• Knowledge of kinship, customary care, and specialized placements.
• Must have a knowledge of the process required to complete Home Studies and proposals for the development of Specialized Homes.
• An understanding of Child Welfare legislation, relevant Standards and Regulations and AJI-CWI.
• Knowledge of the resources that are currently available in Manitoba that support a continuum of services to families.
• Knowledgeable about what the current needs are for children and families involved in the child and family services system in Manitoba.
• Knowledge about the need to develop culturally appropriate resources.
• Effective and professional communication skills, both oral and written.
• Experience and familiarity with Microsoft software (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint.
• Exceptional organizational skills to optimize client and collateral staff needs.
• Detail oriented.
• Proven ability to work in a fast paced, multi-tasked environment and manage deadlines.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing work conditions.
• Ability to work independently and as a team.
• Must have demonstrated understanding of First Nations culture and traditions.
• The ability to communicate in an Indigenous language is considered an asset.

• A satisfactory and current Criminal Record Check with vulnerable sector search.
• A clear and current Child Abuse Registry Check and Prior Contact Check.
• A valid class 5 MB driver's license and regular access to a reliable vehicle for business travel.

Please send a cover letter and a resume to employerrep.