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. The Training Coordinator plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s mission by designing, implementing, and evaluating a training program that systematically supports the knowledge skills and abilities of staff engaged in delivering the Kinship Support Program model. This position is also responsible for driving continuous improvement (CQI) initiatives across the organization, ensuring that processes and outcomes meet the highest quality standards. The coordinator works closely with program leaders to identify development needs, facilitate learning opportunities, and lead quality improvement projects that contribute to the study design outcomes and the mission. This role requires a blend of instructional design expertise, analytical skills, and commitment to improved outcomes for kinship caregivers.

The primary functions of this role include:

• Implementation and co-design of the KCRC training plan
• Design, lead, deliver, and recruit trainers for onboarding and in-service training sessions for KCRC and partner staff.
• Collaborate and meet with vendors to support training plan success
•  Engage in ongoing assessments to track use of and need for ongoing learning and coaching opportunities to support implementation of the KCRC practice model.
• Collect and analyze pre/post-test knowledge checks, feedback forms, and track attendance to ensure the effectiveness of training programs.
• Lead and collaborate on Continuous Quality Improvement initiatives by analyzing performance data and ensuring fidelity and alignment with practice model standards.
• Provide feedback to MichiKIN partner supervisors and partner agencies on employee engagement, retention, and the application of training materials.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, maintain accurate records, and report findings to leadership.
• 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 systematically support positive outcomes for kinship families across the organization.
• Perform 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, Adult Education, Organizational Development, Curriculum Development, or related field

Minimum Requirements

• Master's degree in social work, adult education, organizational development, curriculum development, or related field with a minimum of one year experience designing and delivering training
• Demonstrated success in designing comprehensive training plans that include learning assessments, curriculum development, the use of diverse learning tools and methods, and the creation of sustainability strategies to ensure ongoing skill development and practice retention.
• 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 ability to communicate effectively, resolve team conflicts, foster collaboration, and adapt communication style to various audiences, contributing to successful project outcomes.
• Demonstrated success using the following technologies: Learning Management Systems, Microsoft Office suite, and videoconferencing and project management software
• Proven experience using fidelity tools to systematically collect analyze, and report trends, measure outcomes, and inform decision-making
• Experience implementing CQI methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles.
• Central Registry Clearance documenting that there is no record of child abuse or neglect.
• Internal Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) check and a National and State Sex Offender Registry Check.
• Ability to travel as the position requires regular, statewide travel to support outreach and meet with partner agencies
• Transportation is the responsibility of the employee

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of child welfare, kinship care, education, mental health, criminal justice and/or aging service systems.

Required Application Materials

Interested candidates should send:

1) a letter of application stating qualifications and reasons for interest in this position;

2) current resume or curriculum vitae; and

3) Three letters of reference. At least one letter should be from a former supervisor, and all letters should address your qualifications, skills, and ability to meet the responsibilities of the role. Please remember that letters of recommendation are due at the time of application.

Special Instructions

Work hours standard work hours with occasional weekends and evenings.

Occasional travel throughout the state of Michigan. This position is located in East Lansing allowing flexibility for some remote.

Review of application will begin October 18, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.

This is an off-dated position funded to September 30, 2025, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Review of Applications Begins On

10/18/2024

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

kinship.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.