Amara is committed to positive long-term outcomes for children and families. We drive systemic change, promote healing, and advance racial and LGBTQIA+ equity by offering programs and services to families engaged in the child welfare system.

At Amara, we believe that a supportive, equitable and inclusive workplace, where everyone feels valued, trusted, and nurtured, is key to shaping organizational culture and investing in underrepresented communities. Amara believes that a diverse workforce and inclusive workplace culture enhances our ability to fulfill our mission. We strongly invite candidates from diverse backgrounds, including communities of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.

We are seeking to hire a Licensor and Home Study Specialist to work with foster and kinship families to achieve Amara’s vision. This position will report directly to the Licensing and Home Study Manager and will work collaboratively with Amara’s Foster Care and Kinship Care teams. The earliest start date for this position will be February 1, 2024.

This position will work to license, maintain licenses, and write home studies for foster and kinship families throughout our whole service area which predominately includes families in King and Pierce counties, but may include families from Snohomish, Island, Kitsap, and Thurston counties.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Foster and kinship family preparation, licensing, license maintenance, and home study assessment done through a combination of remote and in-person work in the Puget Sound region. 
• Ensuring that the physical, emotional, and social needs of foster children placed in Amara foster and kinship homes will be met. 
• Liaising with DCYF professionals in the Licensing Division   
• Participating in the facilitation of family trainings and/or support groups as needed 
• Meeting requirements for timely, accurate, and thorough documentation for case files  
• Attending and participating in staff meetings and trainings as required 

• Flexing available hours to accommodate family needs on an occasional and ongoing basis (this could be meeting with families during evenings or weekends) 

• Bachelor’s degree and two years of paid social service experience – or – a master’s degree and one year of paid social service experience. A practicum may be considered as a substitute for one year of paid experience. Degree(s) must be in social services, human services, behavioral science, or an allied field 
• Knowledge of child development and family systems 
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills; Previous home study writing and/or foster/kinship home licensing is a plus 
• Ability to demonstrate initiative, discretion, maturity, flexibility and independent judgment 
• Ability to work with all groups across age, religion, race, culture, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and gender identity 
• Highly organized and detail-oriented 
• Ability to work in tandem with an outstanding professional team 
• A valid Washington State driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and proof of auto insurance  
• Ability to assess and communicate in languages other than English is a plus.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full-time position with an annual salary between $57,000-$69,999. The final salary offer will be commensurate with the selected candidate's experience, qualifications, and demonstrated abilities. Amara offers a generous leave and benefits package including 10 company holidays, 4 personal days, sick leave, and 15 days of vacation per year. Competitive health, dental and vision insurance rates, a 401k with a company match, life, and disability insurance and a paid sabbatical. Amara supports a hybrid work environment with flexibility to work from home. Candidate will have workspace available in one of our locations in either Pierce or King County as well for any "in-office" needs.

Criminal Background Check

Amara conducts background checks appropriate to the contractual requirements of the position. A previous conviction will not necessarily bar individuals from employment at Amara. For specific requirements please feel free to contact the hiring manager or human resources.

Vaccination Requirement:

Amara requires that all employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This requirement is designed to prioritize the safety of the children and families we serve. Exemptions may be sought only for documented medical or religious accommodation.

To Apply

To express your interest in this position, please submit your resume and one-page cover letter indicating why this position is the right opportunity for you in Smart Recruiters.

Resumes submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. We anticipate interviews for this position to occur in January of 2024. 

Amara is an Equal Opportunity Employer