Job Description

Summary:

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.

Key Responsibilities:

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.

Qualifications, Education & Experience:

BSW or equivalent in social services field; minimum five years child welfare and foster care experience or a combination of experience and education. Must have demonstrated understanding of First Nations culture and traditions. 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. The ability to communicate in an Indigenous language is considered an asset.

Other Requirements:

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.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:

Tuesday, October 21, 20225 at 4:00 PM

Please submit your cover letter and resume to

Human Resources

Southern First Nations Network of Care

1151 Sherwin Road, Winnipeg, MB, R3H 0H7

Fax: (204) 783-7996

Email: hr@southernnetwork.org

Preference will be given to qualified Indigenous candidates. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify in their cover letter.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected will be contacted for further consideration.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off RRSP match Vision care
Education:

Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:

CFS/foster care: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person