Education Specialist (Foster Care)

Job Description

Job Description

About Lawrence Hall

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma.

One of our cornerstone programs is Foster Care, which connects DCFS-referred youth ages 0–21 with safe, nurturing homes and the comprehensive services they need to thrive. Whether supporting Traditional, Specialized, or Adolescent Foster Care, our staff work alongside foster families and caregivers to help young people reach permanency-whether that's reunification with their birth family or a long-term alternative caregiver.

About the Role

You'll be a trusted guide helping foster youth take real steps toward a brighter future through education and career goals. As an Education Resource Specialist , you'll support youth in foster care by connecting them with schools, training programs, and job pathways - and helping them stay on track when life gets challenging. This role offers a dynamic blend of fieldwork and office time, ongoing trauma-informed care training, and the chance to join a passionate, mission-driven team dedicated to empowering youth and families. It's more than a job - it's an opportunity to change lives and make a meaningful impact.

Our ideal candidate has experience in education, social work, or youth services and approaches every situation with empathy, patience, and adaptability. You're comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, with a commitment to supporting foster youth in a trauma-informed, strength-based way.

In this role, you will:

• Support youth in creating and pursuing education and vocational plans.
• Visit youth in homes, schools, and community settings to provide hands-on support.
• Collaborate with foster care teams to align education goals with case plans.
• Monitor attendance and progress in school or training programs.
• Offer tutoring or connect youth to additional learning resources as needed.
• Problem-solve with school staff or program providers when challenges arise.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation of progress and goals.

Who we ' re looking for

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Education or related field; experience working with adolescents, or as a teacher/trainer.
• Valid Illinois driver's license and personal vehicle with proof of insurance.
• Ability to pass background and drug screen.
• Strong communication and organization skills

Preferred:

• Prior experience working with youth in foster care or with trauma histories.
• Experience navigating education systems or vocational training supports.
• Knowledge of childhood trauma and prior experience working in settings with youth and families that have been exposed to trauma or experiencing traumatic stress preferred
• Knowledge of youth development, adolescent issues, positive youth development/strength based approach preferred

Work Schedule & Additional Information

This is a full-time hybrid office/field-based role with flexibility with occasional evenings or weekends based on youth needs. Travel is required throughout Cook County to meet with youth for frequent in-person visits at schools, training programs, foster homes, or community locations.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $42,800–$50,000/year, based on experience
• Average of 17–25 days PTO + 9 holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Free life insurance (2x salary)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral bonus up to $1,500

How to Apply

Submit your application here. We look forward to learning more about you!

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V