Purpose of the Position

The Intensive Permanence Specialist has primary responsibility to introduce the concept of family search and engagement to the foster youth and works with the youth’s intensive permanence team to prepare the youth for re-establishing connections with family members or individuals who have been natural supports to the youth in the past.  The Intensive Permanence Specialist also conducts a concentrated search for family members or natural support (adults) for assigned youth and develops specific plans for pursuit of re-establishing connections with adults that addresses youth safety.  The Intensive Permanence Specialist, with the involvement of the youth and youth’s intensive permanence team, develops an individualized plan for legal and emotional permanency as well as a plan for supporting and sustaining relationships.

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field required, Master’s Degree in social work or related field preferred. Mental Health Counselor Limited Permit (clinical hours provided for MHC-LP only). Current applicable license/certification or the ability to become licensed/certified preferred. Significant experience in the child welfare service system (3 or more years) required.  Experience in foster care, adoptions and/or family-based services preferred. Preferred two to three (2-3) years of work experience providing clinical services in a mental health or residential setting for youth and children. Experience working with youth and children exposed to trauma. Demonstrated experience with outreach and community relations.  Establishes permanency and treatment goals for children and youth, utilizing historical and current available information in collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team. Strong community organizing skills and ability to build inter-agency and intra-agency partnerships. Fluency in computer software applications required, including Microsoft Office and web-based applications. Excellent public relations skills with the ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing with diverse individuals and groups. Strong organizational, planning and coordination skills. Ability to mediate, manage conflict and perform successful negotiations. Ability to work collaboratively with agency staff and other key stakeholders. Ability to work well independently. Strong interpersonal and cognitive skills in analysis, assessment, creative and critical thinking, problem solving and decision making. Knowledge of and skill in group facilitation. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to work effectively with children and youth with special needs and their families. Sensitivity and competency in relating to individuals and groups of diverse cultural backgrounds. High level of computer competency in Windows environment required and familiarity with search engines and search technology preferred. Familiarity with Medicaid billing preferred via Children Family Treatment Services (CFTSS) i.e. OLP, CPST, PSR billing Completes all required documentation, including but not limited to session notes, treatment plans, psychosocial summaries, billing documentation, and client correspondence. Must be able to work full-time Valid Driver’s License, auto insurance, reliable transportation and ability to travel. Ability to drive during day and evening hours to various geographic areas. Complete mandated reporter training Compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations to include NYSED guidance.