Director of Foster Care
: Job Details :

Job DetailsJob Location Herkimer Road Office - Utica, NY Salary Range $92,511.00 - $104,000.00 Salary DescriptionBachelor Level Salary is $92,511Master Level Salary is $104,000Basic Function/Overall Responsibilities: The Director of Foster Care is responsible for the administration and oversight of the Foster Care program-all levels of care-respite, kinship, regular, therapeutic, and TFCO. This position supervises a multi-disciplinary team within the division. Administrative duties include role of agency liaison to community stakeholders, active service development/expansion, corporate compliance and fiscal management. The Director of Foster Care Services works with the VP of Foster Care and Evidence-Based Practices, Chief Program Officer, Administrative Team and regional colleagues to develop and maintain policies and procedures for the above-named programs. Principal Assigned Responsibilities:

Facilitate an effective work environment throughout the Foster Care department focused on operational management and quality service intervention supported by effective documentation and communication practices.

Ensure foster homes and Respite Program (1606 Sunset Ave.) meet all safety and regulatory requirements and are able to meet the treatment needs of all youth.

Coordinate recruitment and retention of all foster families.

Ensure the coordination of incident investigations relative to allegations of abuse of inappropriate staff actions and other reportable incidents requiring special needs in accordance with agency policy.

Actively manage census and manage intake process.

Develop and maintain positive professional relationships with all community stakeholders, facilitating regular communication with stakeholders and advise feedback to improve process/services.

Coordinate communication efforts and program development with HGS lead managers who play a supportive role in the treatment services and care of foster care youth/families (medical, clinical, etc.).

Collaborate with supervisor and agency leadership to manage all relevant political (local and state systems), financial, clinical, and liability issues as they arise.

Determine strategic goals and evaluate progress and concert with VP of FC and EBP.

Participate in the development of program budgets and ensure compliance relative to income and expenses through the course for the fiscal year within areas of responsibility.

Evaluate and recommend policies and procedures to improve all services.

Conduct ongoing assessment of training needs. Participate in agency wide trainings.

Participate in internal and external committees or planning groups as determined by agency administration.

Provide regular supervision to staff who report to the Director.

Oversee all clinical and program operations, assuring that the quality of services is maintained. Ensure clinical records are accurate, current and meet regulatory standards.

Actively support staff in maintaining a Sanctuary environment that demonstrates the Sanctuary Commitments and is grounded in the philosophy of Trauma Informed Care.

Ensure that the building and property is clean and well maintained, utilizing agency resources.

Other related activities assigned by VP of FC and EBP.

Relationships, Supervision and Coordination: The Director is supervised by the VP of Foster Care and Evidence Based Practices with whom they have regularly scheduled supervision sessions. S/he provides regular supervision to assigned staff within the department. S/he is a member of the agency's Administrative Team and Management Team. They must maintain positive working relationships with the Business Office, Quality Improvement, Human Resources, Health Services and Maintenance Departments in order to coordinate the administrative functions and operation of assigned program(s). S/he must also develop and maintain positive relationships with all agency staff, programs and departments; with licensing/certifying bodies and with the greater community to promote a positive agency image. QualificationsEducation and Experience Requirements:

Master's Degree in a behavioral health field with a minimum of six years' experience providing treatment to children and families with four years of supervisory experience required. NYS Social worker or mental health license strongly preferred.

Consideration will be given for a bachelor's degree in a related field with eight years of similar work experience including four years of supervisory experience.

Experience working within the foster care system is highly preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies:

Demonstrated experience in the supervision of residential, foster care or community based behavioral health services for children.

Demonstrated supervisory and management skills, maintaining effective work relationships, evaluating and promoting staff development.

Working knowledge of current theories, principles, and practices for services to children and youth with serious behavioral health care symptoms and diagnosis, including but not limited to, wellness, recovery and resiliency-oriented strategies and supports.

Working knowledge of principles and practices of effective supervision, work planning, evaluation, training, and community behavioral health care consultation.

Demonstrated ability to plan, prioritize and organize management activities.

Demonstrated analytical ability to evaluate and make sound decisions.

Creative approaches to system improvements.

Self-motivated; able to work independently.

Demonstrated ability to interpret, explain and apply regulations, policies and procedures.

Effective communication skills, both oral and written.

Demonstrated ability to prepare clear, accurate and effective reports, correspondence and other written materials.

Understanding of basic needs and developmental issues of children in a way that promotes growth and respects individuality.

Asks age and developmentally 'appropriate questions and actively listens to children's responses.

Develops a warm, positive, nurturing relationship with each child.

Follows mandated reporting requirements regarding child abuse and neglect.

Practices infection control, including appropriate hand washing procedures.

Supports staff in applying knowledge of child development and learning in daily practice.

Establishes a program climate that is responsive to the diversity of families being served.

Valid New York State driver's license.