Practice Improvement Specialist

The Practice Improvement Specialist is responsible for responding to county public child welfare agencies and their partners to assist in enhancing child welfare practices for better outcomes for children, youth, and families. The Practice Improvement Specialist supports the implementation of the Pennsylvania Practice Model and statewide initiatives as requested by county and state governments, and serves as a liaison between individual counties and the Pennsylvania Child Welfare Resource Center (Resource Center). To improve outcomes for older youth, the Practice Improvement Specialist facilitates, coordinates, participates in statewide meetings, and coordinates training and technical assistance. The Practice Improvement Specialist also supports state and federal quality service reviews and continuous improvement efforts across Pennsylvania. In collaboration with county agencies and stakeholders, the Practice Improvement Specialist conducts ongoing on-site assessments, planning, development, monitoring, and delivery of technical assistance, training, and transfer of learning products and services. The Practice Improvement Specialist functions as a team member of the Organizational Effectiveness/Regional Team Department and other internal and external committees as assigned for the Child Welfare Resource Center.

The job duties outlined in this job description include common job responsibilities for this title and level of jobs and are not intended to cover every duty. The University reserves the right to assign other duties to employees that are not listed in this job description. Bachelor’s degree and one year of experience required. Master’s degrees/MSW preferred and 5 years of experience in social work or closely related field preferred. The Child Welfare Resource Center operates in a hybrid work approach where work can be completed remotely, in the Mechanicsburg office, and in the field as necessary and appropriate. Time for this position is estimated as 35% remote work, 5% in the Mechanicsburg office, and 60% in the field. This position is located in the Central Region of Pennsylvania.

The Practice Improvement Specialist must be able to travel long distances on a frequent basis, statewide throughout the Commonwealth, in the Central Region, and surrounding counties. Experience working with ethnically and culturally diverse populations preferred. A commitment to achieving equity and inclusion in the child welfare system is a must.

Candidates who desire consideration for this position MUST apply online. Candidates MUST also attach a cover letter, resume, and writing sample. Writing sample can be a full document or excerpt of a document, must be relevant to the position, should not exceed 5 years, and should be limited to no more than five pages.

Please review the Posting Deadline at http://www.pacwrc.pitt.edu/HumanResources.html and for more information about the Resource Center, visit us at http://www.pacwrc.pitt.edu.

The University offers a robust retirement savings plan option, including:

• 100% University match on employee contribution of 3-8% of base pay
• 150% University match on employee contribution of 3-8% of base pay after vesting.
• Enhanced University match for those nearing retirement.
• 11 Paid Holidays.
• Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days.
• Additional Paid Time Off (Winter Recess) during the period between Christmas and the New Year.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Above-average Employer Contribution toward Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, and LTD insurance plans.
• Flexible Work Schedules.
• Staff, Spouses, Domestic Partners, and Dependents Education Benefits.

Focuses on continuous quality improvement initiatives to enhance departmental functions and evaluates departmental practices to look for improvement opportunities. Manages and analyzes quality improvement efforts, develops protocols and policies, and oversees development of statewide implementation plans. Contributes to research that promotes child welfare. Assists in training and technical assistance procedures.

Must be able to operate computers and other office equipment; communicate effectively with management contacts as well as internal and external contacts; perform under pressure of numerous deadlines; perform multiple job tasks and projects. A valid driver’s license or the ability to travel to perform the essential functions is required.

Typical field travel required will be statewide throughout the Commonwealth on a frequent basis, lifting up to 30 pounds, and setting up and preparing audiovisual equipment for meetings and presentations.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.