Level 1 Licensing Specialist

Mission Statement

The Children's Network of Hillsborough is committed to working with the community to protect children and preserve families.

General Purpose of Job

The purpose of the Level 1 Specialist is to complete the Level 1 Licensure, Re-licensure and Guardianship Assistance Program (GAP) for caregivers in Circuit 13.  Additionally, the Specialists will support caregivers through training, assessing and coordination and provision of support services for children placed in the home.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Promoting the Level 1 Program and the importance of relative placements through training sessions and community presentations
• Completing family  assessments  through  the  home  study  process,  licensure  and  re-licensure  of caregivers' homes.
• Provide and locate ongoing support services for Relative/Non-Relative Caregiver families regardless of cases status (active or closed). 
• Develop ongoing resources for Relative/Non-Relative Caregivers and make them accessible both electronically and manually.
• Follow-up support on initial placements and assist Child Welfare Case Managers, as needed, to ensure placement recommendations are completed.
• Attend appropriate staffings in order to advocate for the best interest of the children served.
• Track and log all appropriate information for monthly reports.
• Traveling throughout Circuit 13.
• Other duties may be assigned as special projects may be requested.

Working Hours

CNHC's work week is Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week. Your supervisor will advise you of your work hours; however, business office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Travel

Travel in and outside of Circuit 13 (Hillsborough County) is required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Experience

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Human Service or other related field   
• Current Certification as a Child Welfare Professional – preferred
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a child welfare case manager, child protective investigator or other child welfare experience 

Skills and Abilities

Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building relationships with prospective foster parents, understanding their needs, and effectively conveying expectations. Organizational and time management skills are critical for handling multiple cases, conducting home studies, and meeting deadlines. The ability to assess and evaluate homes for safety and compliance with state and federal regulations requires keen attention to detail and analytical skills. Emotional intelligence and empathy are vital to understanding the experiences of families and children while maintaining professionalism and objectivity. Knowledge of child welfare policies, licensing procedures, and trauma-informed care practices is crucial for ensuring compliance and supporting the well-being of children in care. Additionally, problem-solving abilities, cultural competence, and adaptability are essential for addressing challenges and fostering inclusive and supportive environments for diverse families.

Pre-employment Requirements

Certificates, License, Registrations, backgrounds, drug screens, Etc.

• Valid driver's license required, with proof of insurance
• Driver's license check is a requirement
• No special certification or registration is required for this position
• Criminal background screening (fingerprinting) (Local Law Enforcement and FBI/FDLE)
• Drug Screening is a requirement
• Children's Network participates in E-Verify

Other Requirements

Language Skills

Proficiency in written and verbal communication ensures clarity and accuracy in documentation, home studies, and reports, as well as in interactions with families, children, and community partners. Active listening skills are crucial for understanding the concerns and needs of families while fostering trust and collaboration. Additionally, the ability to adapt language to suit various audiences, whether explaining licensing requirements to families, drafting professional correspondence, or presenting information to stakeholders—enhances overall effectiveness in the role.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.  Ability to compute rate, ratio, percentages, ability to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability

Analytical reasoning skills allow specialists to assess home environments, evaluate the suitability of prospective foster parents, and interpret compliance with licensing standards. Problem-solving abilities are essential for addressing challenges, such as identifying and mitigating potential risks in a home or guiding families through the licensing process. Critical thinking helps in analyzing diverse information sources and making fair, objective judgments while maintaining the child's best interests as the priority. Additionally, logical reasoning is key for organizing evidence, crafting detailed reports, and making recommendations based on findings. Emotional and ethical reasoning further aid in understanding the nuances of family dynamics, cultural considerations, and trauma-informed practices, ensuring thoughtful and compassionate decision-making.

Physical Demands

The physical demands of this position are generally moderate. The role may require extended periods of sitting, standing, and using a computer. Occasional lifting of office supplies, files, or materials up to 25 pounds may be required. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Work Enviroment

This is an in-office-based position focused on administrative work, where the noise level may be moderate. This role may involve occasional travel to homes, extended periods of computer work, and frequent interactions across multiple departments. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

ADA:       Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

EEO: Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC does not discriminate based on race, national origin, gender, religion, veteran status, or disability in employment, in provision of services, or in access to programs.

Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC is a Drug-Free Workplace.