Family Visitation Specialist - Per Diem

Description

AMHC is seeking an on-call Family Visitation Specialist to coordinate and supervise visits between children and their families in the Aroostook County Valley area. 

This position promotes positive parent-child relationships while ensuring visits are conducted safely and in accordance with court orders and applicable agreements. 

The Family Visitation Specialist provides supportive parent education, observes parent-child interactions, and treats all parents and caregivers with dignity and respect.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervise family visits according to court orders and other applicable agreements.
• Provide parent education by modeling positive parenting skills and teaching alternatives related to:
  • Setting appropriate limits
  • Positive discipline and communication
  • Engaging in play
  • Active listening
  • Encouraging exploration
  • Positive reinforcement
  • Age-appropriate expectations and child development
  • Role clarity
  • Meeting children's physical needs at various ages and developmental stages
  • Utilizing community resources to meet family needs
• Relay relevant information between parents and caregivers regarding the child's welfare at the beginning and end of supervised visits.
• Intervene when necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of children, including terminating visits when appropriate.
• Follow all safety procedures, guidelines, and safety plans.
• Complete required documentation accurately and within established timeframes.
• Testify in court when necessary.
• Provide services in offices, homes, and community settings based on client needs, including evenings and weekends.
• Transport children as needed as part of family visitation services.
• Open and maintain case records in accordance with agency standards.
• Coordinate services with the Family Visitation Supervisor, DHHS, and other members of the child's and family's service team as requested.
• Participate in family team meetings as requested by DHHS.
• Complete all required initial and ongoing training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

General Expectations

• Maintain confidentiality of client and agency information.
• Provide a welcoming and respectful environment for individuals receiving mental health, substance use, co-occurring, community support, rehabilitation, and social services.
• Follow all applicable agency policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Work collaboratively as a member of the service team.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism when working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, and abilities.
• Maintain flexibility and availability to meet client and agency needs, including overtime when necessary.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to sit and stand for extended periods, walk, talk, hear, and operate standard office equipment, including a computer keyboard and mouse. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. The position may also require supporting children with behavioral or physical needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment and Travel

Work is generally performed in a professional environment with a quiet noise level. This position requires travel throughout the service area, including to client homes, offices, DHHS locations, and community settings. Travel and visits may occur outside of regular business hours based on client needs.

Schedule and Employment Status

This is a non-exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and beyond normal business hours as needed to meet client and agency needs. Compensation for hours worked will be provided in accordance with applicable wage and hour requirements and agency policies.

Supervisory Relationship

The Family Visitation Specialist reports directly to the Family Visitation Supervisor.

Requirements

1. High school diploma or equivalent is required. 

2. Experience working with children and families.

3. Be 21 years of age or older and High School Diploma/GED. 

4. Have no conviction for driving under the influence (OUI) within the last 5 years. 

5. Not have been on probation or parole for the last 10 years. 

6. Have no record of a conviction or a record of not being criminally responsible because of mental disease or defect for child molestation, child abuse, or other crimes against a person. Have no civil, criminal, or juvenile restraining orders within the last 10 years. 

7. Have no current or past court order in which the provider is the person being supervised. 

8. Agree to adhere to and enforce the court’s or Department’s order regarding supervised visitation.

9. Have no record of substantiation for child abuse or neglect.

10. Reliable, insured transportation and have proof of automobile insurance.

11. Ability to work night and weekend hours.