Skill Advancement Coach

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionUnder the direction of the DCFS Director of the Office of Research and Child Well-Being, the Skill Advancement Coach provides structured, skill-based coaching to supervisors and other staff across DCFS/CWCA. This role strengthens supervisory capacity, improves team performance, and promotes alignment with DCFS values, well-being goals, and implementation science principles. The coach supports supervisors in applying trauma-informed, family-centered, evidence-based and evidence-informed approaches, translating strategic leadership into actionable development plans.
Coaching and Skill DevelopmentProvide individual and group coaching to supervisors and other targeted audiences, focusing on leadership, communication, reflective practice, and problem-solving skillsSupport supervisors and other assigned staff in applying trauma-informed, family-centered, and evidence-informed practices with their teamsDevelop and implement coaching plans based on observed supervisory and targeted audiences’ strengths, skill gaps, and professional development goalsMonitor and track progress toward leadership development objectives, adjusting coaching strategies as needed
Reflective Practice and MentorshipProvide reflective support to supervisors and other assigned staff, helping them improve decision-making, team management, and staff development practicesFoster a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and accountability among supervisory and other staff
Education and Transferring SkillsEnsure supervisors and staff are equipped to coach and guidance to their teams effectivelyIdentify ongoing professional development needs for supervisors and other assigned staff, and recommend resources or learning opportunities
Program Alignment and CollaborationCollaborate with ORCW leadership and program teams to ensure coaching aligns with DCFS vision, well-being goals, and implementation science practicesSupport integration of coaching into DCFS designated program initiatives, including EBI/EII implementation and strategies
Evaluation and CQICollect and analyze outcomes of supervisory and assigned staff coaching to assess impact on supervisory effectiveness and team performanceContribute to CQI processes, recommending improvements to coaching strategies and support systems
Other Duties as AssignedPerforms other related duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above
Minimum Required Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field.Three (3) years of experience in child welfare (case work, supervision, mental health treatment provision to families involved in child welfare, work associated with child welfare).
For full consideration, please visit https://employment.niu.edu/postings/94159 to submit the following materials:
Required Documents:Cover Letter – Please include your interest in employment with NIU and how your previous experiences position you for success in the role for which you are applying.Current ResumeList of Three Professional ReferencesUnofficial Transcripts (official transcripts will be required within 30 days of start date)\nCompany DescriptionNorthern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university in DeKalb, Illinois. Positions are available statewide. Staff work from home, with some regional travel to conduct interviews, assessments and other work as needed.Company DescriptionNorthern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university in DeKalb, Illinois. Positions are available statewide. Staff work from home, with some regional travel to conduct interviews, assessments and other work as needed.