This position works under the direct supervision of Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) supervisor or the director over the PAL program. This position acts as the subject matter expert and serves as a liaison interfacing with CPS staff and youth and young adults who are currently or formerly in foster care. The key job responsibilities of this position include organizing and supporting the development, maintenance and activities of the Regional Youth Leadership Council (YLC); advancing the work of the Regional YLC, and outreach to youth and young adults; promoting the role of advocacy and public education at the community and regional levels regarding issues facing youth and young adults transitioning from out of home care; writing articles and announcements for YLC publication; consulting with others on projects and providing and gathering youth and young adults input; submit quarterly reports to State Office Youth Specialist; related administrative tasks; and other duties as assigned. This position works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. This position will be filled by a former foster care youth who aged out of care.
Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular basis and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Promotes the role of advocacy and public education at the community and regional levels regarding issues facing youth transitioning out of care. Works on various projects that may involve speaking before groups for education purposes related to youth development and leadership. 10%
Coordinates and supports the development, maintenance and activities of the Regional Youth Leadership Committee (YLC). Prepares reports and submits information to regional and/or state office administration.10%
Coordinates youth opportunities in leadership development and training, advocacy, and how to operate, govern and maintain the YLC. Advances the work and presence of the YLC, linking young people across the region and supporting the Committee’s outreach activities and priorities. 10%
Coordinates with staff and work groups to provide youth / alumni perspective into practice, procedures, and policies related to youth currently or formerly in care and who continue to receive benefits. Gathers youth input to ensure consumer perspective. Assists with development of core services, policies and procedures related to services provided to foster care youth. 10%
Assist in providing consultative services, sharing of policy, best practice, and program information with internal and external stakeholders. 10%
Prepare materials for the Transitional Living Services program, regional Youth Leadership Council reports, and other materials as requested related to youth currently and formerly in foster care.
10%
Explains and disseminates information concerning transitional living Services and other supports to youth and young adults.10%
Responds to inquiries from youth currently and formerly in foster care regarding services and benefits for youth who experienced the foster care system. 10%
Serves as a youth consultant to staff, workgroups and committees. Represents the region as a member of the Regional Youth Specialists Group, and to the PAL and ETV Specialists at State office. 5%
Prepares and compiles training materials. Will present training materials at regional and state events individually and/or as a part of of team.5%
Assists with writing articles and announcements for youth newsletters, the website, and other related publications. 5%
Performs related administrative tasks, such as internet research, typing, copying, faxing and filing. 5%
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of Child Protective Services (CPS) and experience mentoring, guiding, working with young people in the child welfare system
Knowledge of CPS and Transitional Living services and benefits for youth and young adults to promote the successful transition the foster care system
Ability to interpret rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; to communicate effectively; and to provide guidance to others
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Good organizational skills and ability to set and meet established priorities
Ability to maintain a budget for the regional YLC
Ability to relate well to others in a multi-ethnic work environment
Ability to communicate effectively with the children, youth, and others, verbally and in writing
Ability to present orally
Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
Ability to utilize de-escalation skills
Ability to utilize critical thinking skills
Skill in the use of standard office equipment, computer, and software
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Applicants for positions which require, as part of the essential functions of the job, driving a motor vehicle, must have a reliable motor vehicle, and acceptable driving record for the past five years, and a current, valid Texas driver’s license appropriate for the vehicle and passenger or cargo load.
Initial Selection Criteria:
* Must be an alumni of a state's child welfare system. * Graduation from high school or equivalent. *Completion of 30 semester hours from an accredited College or University* One year of relevant work experience in administrative work or a technical program area is preferred. Preferred work experience using a personal computer and work experience to indicate a general understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform job duties. *Willingness to travel overnight and across Texas;
Additional Information:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview. ****Applicant must be willing and able to provide documentation of being an alumni of a state's child welfare system.*****
MOS Code:
Note: There are no direct military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position. All active duty, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply. For more information, see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk here.
As a state agency, DFPS is required Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files.
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.