Licensing Specialist

This position participates in the recruitment and retention of foster homes, participates in the training, licensing, and investigations of foster care homes for children and families, and completes job duties in accordance with all applicable contractual and regulatory job requirements and state policy requirements.

Reporting Relationship: This position reports directly to the Licensing Program Manager.

• Develop and maintain contacts with religious and community groups and key individuals to increase their awareness of the need for foster parents, and AOI services.
• Plan and conduct regular orientation meetings and pre-service training with prospective foster parents.
• Complete original home study for all new foster parent applicants.
• Complete annual and renewal license assessments, and all licensing actions related to changes in foster home, within prescribed timeframes.
• Complete investigations of all complaints against foster families in a thorough and timely manner.
• Attend licensing coalition meetings.
• Participate in performance based smart goal setting and achievement to meet personal and center objectives.
• Attend and participate in yearly trainings.
• Encourage and participate in cooperative working relationships.
• Perform all assignments in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Ensure that annual training requirements are met regarding current child welfare practices and laws, in accordance with the administrative and licensing rules of the State of Michigan.
• Attend recruitment events as requested by the agency.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Required: Bachelor’s Degree in a human behavioral science.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in a human behavioral science with 1-2 years of experience in licensing.

• Ability to operate with minimal direct supervision.
• Ability to work within complex social systems and coordinate resources as they apply to client needs.
• Ability to deal constructively and appropriately with client apathy, hostility, resistance, and anger.
• Ability to work in team relationships with other professionals from varied community groups, agencies, and disciplines.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of state and local human service systems and resources, particularly as they apply to child welfare, family services, human development, personality, family life, and social environments.
• Knowledge of advanced counseling techniques with individuals, groups, and parenting techniques. Other Requirements:
• Excellent written and verbal communication/presentation skills.
• Excellent assessment skills.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Prior experience with Microsoft Office or other processing applications/programs.
• Satisfactory verification of criminal/abuse checks.
• Satisfactory verification of sex offender registry check.
• Valid unrestricted driver’s license and proof of insurance.
• Reliable transportation.