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JOB DETAILS

Family Specialist - Counselor

CompanyChildren & Families of Iowa
LocationClarinda
Work ModeOn Site
PostedAugust 26, 2026
About The Company
Tens of thousands – that is the number of Iowans impacted by the services of Children & Families of Iowa (CFI) each year. Since 1888, CFI has been dedicated to improving the lives of children and families throughout the state of Iowa. Today, we serve Iowans through important program areas: domestic violence prevention and intervention, teen programs, family support, early childhood development, and mental health and substance abuse. Looking for a meaningful career, volunteer opportunities, or a worthy organization to support with lasting impact? Join us in our important and rewarding work. Our mission – to restore hope, build futures, and change lives – guides everything we do as an organization. Discover how you can make an impact by visiting cfiowa.org.
About the Role

Description

At Children & Families of Iowa, our mission is simple but powerful: Restore Hope. Build Futures. Change Lives. As a Family Specialist – Counselor, you will play a key role in supporting children and families as they work through challenges and build stronger futures together.


In this position, you will provide direct counseling, assessments, and family-centered services to help families develop the skills and support systems they need to thrive. You’ll work closely with supervisors, community partners, and other professionals while using evidence-based models such as Solution-Based Casework and SafeCare.


We provide training, job shadowing, and ongoing support so you can grow your skills and make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.


What You’ll Do

As a Family Specialist – Counselor, you will:

  • Conduct independent assessments of family strengths and needs using evidence-based tools
  • Provide counseling and skill-building services to children and families
  • Facilitate family interactions and support positive family relationships
  • Provide crisis intervention services when needed
  • Coordinate and schedule meetings with families, IHHS, and FCS team members
  • Complete intake forms, assessments, case notes, and reports in electronic systems
  • Collaborate with community partners to ensure families receive the support they need

Your work will help families develop healthier relationships, improve stability, and build brighter futures.


Why You’ll Love Working Here

We value our employees and offer a supportive environment with meaningful benefits:

  • 80 hours of vacation time after just 90 days
  • Up to 480 hours of accrued paid sick leave
  • 8 paid holidays annually
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision
  • Company-provided life insurance with optional voluntary coverage
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Employee Referral Program

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) or a related human services field
  • Ability to complete SafeCare and Solution-Based Casework training (training provided)
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently, respond to emergencies, and meet deadlines
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Reliable internet access or ability to work from an office location
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Auto insurance with liability coverage and a safe driving record

Candidates with diverse backgrounds and multilingual abilities are strongly encouraged to apply.


Children & Families of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Learn more about our mission and programs at www.cfiowa.org.

Key Skills
CounselingCase managementCrisis interventionAssessmentSolution-based caseworkSafecareTime managementOrganizational skillsCommunication skillsReport writingDocumentationCollaboration
Categories
Social ServicesHealthcare
Benefits
Vacation timePaid sick leavePaid holidaysMedical insuranceDental insuranceVision insuranceLife insuranceShort-term disability coverageLong-term disability coverage401(k) with company matchEmployee assistance programEmployee referral program
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The Family Specialist provides direct counseling, assessments, and skill-building services to children and families to support their stability and growth. They also coordinate meetings with community partners and maintain accurate case documentation in electronic systems.
📋Job Type
full time
💰Salary Range
$20 - $22
📊Experience Level
0-2
💼Company Size
242
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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