Specialist – Outreach-Fixed Term

### Position Summary

Michigan State University actively promotes dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives, and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.

The MSU School of Social Work is dedicated to educating students for ethical, competent, responsive, and innovative social work practice, and to conducting and disseminating high quality research that improves the well-being of the most vulnerable in society. Our teaching, research, and outreach synergistically promote social justice, positive change, and solutions to the problems facing diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. More than 650 students are enrolled in our CSWE-accredited BASW and MSW programs, and PhD program.

The Kinship Care Resource Center (KCRC) is one of four community programs in the School of Social Work at Michigan State University. The Kinship Care Resource Center provides statewide support, information, and referrals for kinship caregivers through a website, toll-free phone line, and community outreach. KCRC is engaged in the development and study of a Kinship Navigator model designed to improve caregiver well-being and satisfaction called the Kinship Support Program (KSP). This position will support implementation of the statewide Connect model and oversight of kinship navigators hired by community organizations with whom KCRC has contracted partnerships. This position will be funded through September 30, 2025, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

The primary functions of this role include:

– Meets regularly with community partner navigators to consult on cases and support implementation of the model protocol
– Coaches and supports kinship navigators to ensure practices are culturally responsive and timely
– Identifies and implements, alongside the training coordinator, activities designed to meet continued learning needs for providers and partnering supervisors
– Executes a fidelity plan for assigned navigators and drives CQI activities for the Connect model
– Facilitates communication and maintains relationships between referral agencies and kinship families to ensure effective service delivery.
– Responds to inquiries from prospective program participants and provides referrals and direct services, including phone support, as needed.
– Meets and communicates regularly with the partner organization Site Coordinators
– Collaborates with Kinship team leaders on strategies to enhance implementation discuss trends, facilitate change processes, contribute to a culture of learning, and drive activities that support positive outcomes for kinship families.
– Presents to external audiences about kinship care
– Provides internship supervision
– Other duties as assigned

### Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

### Required Degree

Masters -Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field

### Minimum Requirements

Masters Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or related field with a minimum of 2 years post graduate work experience

Direct experience delivering human services, with experience in person- or family-led decision-making

Experience supervising, training and coaching staff and/or interns to support skill development and continuous quality improvement practices

Demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, with experience contributing to or supporting DEI initiatives in a professional or academic setting.

Strong interpersonal skills with a proven ab