Family Support Specialist

Company: ICAN Inc
Location: Utica
Posted on: January 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description The Family Support Specialist provides direct support to families involved in the child welfare system in Oneida County. This role is responsible for facilitating evidence-based parenting courses, leading parent support groups, providing direct support to parents/guardians, assisting Preventive Case Planners in the field as needed, and providing supervised visitation coverage. The Family Support Specialist works in partnership with families, agency staff, Oneida County Department of Family and Community Services (OCDFCS), and community providers to strengthen parenting skills, promote child safety and well-being, and support family stability. Duties and Responsibilities: Facilitate evidence-based parenting education programs (such as Nurturing Parenting Program, Active Parenting, Incredible Years, etc.) for parents and caregivers with children ages 0-18 involved in the child welfare system. Lead parent support groups that promote peer connection, learning, growth, and support. Provide 1:1 support to Preventive Case Planners in the field, including supporting parents with skill-building, coaching, and access to resources. Typically through in-home visits and/or at other locations (school, community agencies, etc.) Deliver strengths-based, culturally responsive services that engage families as active partners in the change process. Assist Case Planners as needed to support family engagement. Coordinate and complete intakes for clients/families referred to ICAN by Oneida County Department of Family and Community Services for supervised visitation. Cover supervised visitation sessions as needed, ensuring safe, structured, and supportive environments for children and families. Administer evidence-based pre and post Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory (AAPI) assessments for clients/families in both supervised visitations and parenting education programs to measure changes in parent and child rearing attitudes. Maintain accurate, timely, and professional documentation in accordance with agency policies and contract/regulatory requirements. Participate in case conferences, staff meetings, and training to support professional growth and program quality. Work collaboratively with families, agency colleagues and community partners to coordinate services and supports. Attend all required meetings, court appearances, and trainings as required. Become credentialed as a Family Peer Advocate, if eligible, within 6 months of hire. Additional duties may be assigned, on an as needed basis. Education/Experience: Lived experience as a parent or caregiver of a child who has been involved in child welfare, behavioral health, mental health, juvenile justice, or similar systems, preferred Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered. Experience working with families, preferably in child welfare, parenting education, and/or family support services. Knowledge of child development, parenting strategies, and family dynamics. Flexibility to work evenings and occasional weekends to meet family needs. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Keywords: ICAN Inc, Syracuse , Family Support Specialist, Social Services , Utica, New York