Project First Step: Family Specialist

Project First Step, an EHCA (Erie Homes for Children and Adults) program, supports families who are often economically challenged, in need of parenting education, may have drug and alcohol addictions, may be intellectually challenged or lack the resources to provide a safe environment for their children.

The Family Specialist maintains a caseload to provide comprehensive support to families receiving services. They use assessment/measurement tools for program planning, as well as evidence-based parenting curricula and supportive programs, to help families get the education and resources they need to thrive. 

40 hours per week (full-time)

Mainly day shift, some evening hours may be necessary.

Base rate is $19.00 per hour; pay rate is based on experience.

Family Specialist responsibilities:

• Maintains a caseload and provides comprehensive services to families in varying levels of need.
• Attends appointments and meetings with or on behalf of the program participant in a variety of settings.
• Networks with local social service agencies and referring agencies.
• Completes routine documentation as it pertains to or for program participants. Prepares monthly reports.
• Maintains ongoing staff training and certifications as required.
• Prepares Family Action/Case Plans for each program participant and work with Erie County Office of Children and Youth when required.
• Utilizes program curriculum and training materials for childbirth and parenting when applicable.
• Assists program-involved families with obtaining any and all necessary home and community services to best address their needs.
• Assists families in identifying skills and implementing goals needed to parent children in a safe and healthy environment, including showing families how to properly clean and maintain a clean and safe environment for their children.

REQUIREMENTS:

Please review this job posting carefully. Applicants who do not meet the requirements for this position are encouraged to review other job postings on our website, ehca.org. Thank you for considering EHCA.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university or working towards an undergraduate degree (i.e., students within their final semester). Preferred degrees include psychology, social work, sociology, and counseling, but they are not required.
• Related experience and/or training is preferred.
• Demonstrates ability to provide direct service to individuals and families.
• Ability to travel within Erie and surrounding counties. (Must possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license.)
• Must demonstrate the ability to communicate both verbally and in writing effectively.
• Experience with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and drug and alcohol addiction and recovery is preferred.
• Knowledge of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth and the family court system is preferred.
• Knowledge of or experience with a variety of social services agencies and supports in Erie and surrounding counties is preferred.
• With EHCA's assistance, the ability to obtain all clearances as required to meet regulatory compliance. This includes Act 33 (PA child abuse), Act 34 (PA criminal background check, Act 73 FBI fingerprint clearance, and the National Sex Offender Database. For applicants who have lived out of state in the last 2 years, the Department of Aging clearance is required. 

Benefits for YOU:

• All positions eligible for matching 401K
• Medical insurance for the employee, $15 per pay period
• Vision, dental, and life insurance are offered at no cost to the employee
• Paid time off - excellent PTO and sick time benefits are available after 3 months of employment
• Paid holidays - holiday time after 30 days of employment
• Paid training
• Employee referral program
• Flexible spending account
• Employee assistance program