Child Welfare Specialist

Company: Catalyst Career Group
Location: Oak Brook
Posted on: February 21, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is seeking an organized, professional, and results oriented individual to serve as Subsidy Support Specialist. Under general supervision, this position will provide professional child welfare adoption and subsidized guardianship services to pre and post adoption and subsidized guardianship families. The position will identify children appropriate for adoption/guardianship and conduct assessments and home studies to determine the suitability of prospective adoptive homes. This position provides a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about children and interested in playing a role in ensuring that children and youth find their forever home. Benefits: Medical, dental and vision insurance Life insurance Pension plan Paid time off Responsibilities: Serves as Subsidy Support Specialist Prepares and counsels birth parents and adoptive families regarding placement or conversion to adoption or subsidized guardianship Prepares and maintains necessary case documentation for planning, implementing, and evaluating services Maintains case files to ensure the presence of requisite legal documents, including court orders, financial or subsidy agreements, home studies, investigations and background checks, assessments, and diagnostic/medical reports Responds to informational requests regarding adoption services and shares expertise in adoption with child welfare staff in both public and private delivery systems (i.e., CPS/CWS staff, new workers, Adoption Preservation program staff, etc.) Reviews billings and contracts regarding adoption and guardianship assistance cases for accuracy of information Requirements: Preferably requires a master’s degree in social work; OR a master’s degree in a related human service field, supplemented by one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; OR requires a bachelor’s degree in social work and one year of directly related professional casework/case management experience; OR requires a bachelor’s degree in a related human service field and two years of directly related professional casework/case management experience Requires a valid driver’s license, daily access to an automobile, and proof of vehicle insurance Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history Requires physical, visual and auditory ability to carry out assigned duties Plan to attend and meet face-to-face with hiring managers. Candidates will be considered for this position whether or not you attend the job fair. Pre-Register online at: https://catalystcareergroup.com/event/oak -brook-job-fair-3-2026/ Oak Brook Job Fair Thursday, March 12, 2026 10:00AM - 12:30PM Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Lombard Oak Brook 707 East Butterfield Road Lombard, IL 60148 All of the companies at our job fairs have open positions they are seeking to fill. Tips for Success: Pre-register—Receive notifications of any updates or changes to the event, and receive information about upcoming events in your area. Dress professionally—First impressions go a long way. Bring multiple copies of your resume. Arrive anytime between 10 AM and 12:30 PM—Plan to spend 45 minutes to 1 hour at the event. Bring a friend—All job seekers are welcome. Prepare a brief but effective “brag” to let the people you meet get to know you. Keep an open mind—Meet with as many of the companies as you can; you may be pleasantly surprised at what you find. Remember, the best way to be considered for a position is to meet the hiring managers in person. Plan to attend this event! (Candidates will be considered for this position whether or not you attend the job fair.) Pre-Register online at: https://catalystcareergroup.com/event/oak -brook-job-fair-3-2026/

Keywords: Catalyst Career Group, Arlington Heights , Child Welfare Specialist, Legal , Oak Brook, Illinois