Under 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 Development
- Provide individual and group coaching to supervisors and other targeted audiences, focusing on leadership, communication, reflective practice, and problem-solving skills
- Support supervisors and other assigned staff in applying trauma-informed, family-centered, and evidence-informed practices with their teams
- Develop and implement coaching plans based on observed supervisory and targeted audiences’ strengths, skill gaps, and professional development goals
- Monitor and track progress toward leadership development objectives, adjusting coaching strategies as needed
Reflective Practice and Mentorship
- Provide reflective support to supervisors and other assigned staff, helping them improve decision-making, team management, and staff development practices
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and accountability among supervisory and other staff
Education and Transferring Skills
- Ensure supervisors and staff are equipped to coach and guidance to their teams effectively
- Identify ongoing professional development needs for supervisors and other assigned staff, and recommend resources or learning opportunities
Program Alignment and Collaboration
- Collaborate with ORCW leadership and program teams to ensure coaching aligns with DCFS vision, well-being goals, and implementation science practices
- Support integration of coaching into DCFS designated program initiatives, including EBI/EII implementation and strategies
Evaluation and CQI
- Collect and analyze outcomes of supervisory and assigned staff coaching to assess impact on supervisory effectiveness and team performance
- Contribute to CQI processes, recommending improvements to coaching strategies and support systems
Other Duties as Assigned
- Performs 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), or related fields. A Masters Degree in social work, human services, psychology, public administration or related field can substitute for one (1) year of experience in child welfare. A clinical license (LCP, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Psychology) can substitute for two (2) years of experience.
For full consideration, please visit https://employment.niu.edu/postings/94159to submit the following materials by 8/13/2026:
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 Resume
- List of Three Professional References
- Unofficial Transcripts (official transcripts will be required within 30 days of start date)
Northern 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.