Child Life History – Independent Contractor

At Bethany Christian Services, we believe families provide the strongest foundation for care and connection. That's why we focus on strengthening and empowering families, always advocating for family-centered solutions to keep children safe. Our work began in 1944 with the care of a single child. Today, inspired by our faith, our aim is to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus in our services for children, youth, and families. 

Working at Bethany means joining a team of nearly 2,000 dedicated professionals with diverse skills, serving communities across the country. Together, we’re united in our mission and these shared values: we’re motivated by our faith, we support one another, we champion justice, we pursue excellence, and we’re in it for the long haul.

JOB DETAIL

Position: Child Life History  – Independent Contractor
Schedule: Flexible
Compensation: Fixed rate of $250.00 for each completed and approved Child Life History narrative

Remote within the U.S. except AK, DE, HI, ID, KS, KY, LA, MT, NM, ND, OK, OR, UT, VT, WV and WY

As a Child Life History - Independent Contractor, you will be primarily responsible for gathering historical information about a child and preparing a comprehensive written narrative that includes all required documentation. The contractor will also be responsible for finalizing narratives following appropriate review and submitting completed reports to the appropriate Bethany supervisors for review and approval within required timelines.

This contractor position offers a flexible schedule; however, all assigned narratives, revisions, documentation, and submissions must be completed within established program deadlines.

This position is expected to function effectively with moderate oversight while following established procedures, agency guidelines, and applicable federal and state regulatory requirements.

ESSENTIAL CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contact the referring case manager upon receipt of a referral to gather required information;
• Review file documents in SHINES to ensure necessary documentation is available;
• Interview the case manager using the provided list of questions as a guideline;
• Interview the foster parent using the provided list of questions as a guideline;
• Review documentation provided by the DFCS case manager to ensure that all necessary medical records, psychological/psychiatric records, school records, developmental records, court orders, and birth certificate records have been provided;
• Follow up with appropriate parties to obtain missing records or information;
• Complete all required forms;
• Prepare a written narrative regarding the child and submit it within required timelines;
• Complete revisions and edits as requested during the review process;
• Submit the completed narrative and required supporting documentation to the appropriate Bethany supervisors for review and approval within established timelines;
• Complete any revisions requested by Bethany supervisors and resubmit the narrative for final approval;
• Attend required meetings and trainings;
• Maintain timely communication regarding assigned narratives, outstanding documentation, and requested revisions;
• Essential responsibilities may vary based on the specific needs of the program or department;
• May be requested to participate in Bethany-sponsored events, when applicable;
• Complete other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s level degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field of study from an accredited college and three years of social services experience;
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Strong professional writing, documentation, and information-gathering skills;
• Commitment to permanency for children;
• Must be reliable and able to consistently meet time-sensitive deadlines and assignments;
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple assignments;
• Exercise a high level of confidentiality;
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions, including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite;
• Must be 21 years old with a valid driver's license and at least three years of driving experience in the U.S. if operating a vehicle on behalf of Bethany;
• Must pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate coverage, when driving is required;
• Pass a criminal history screen, including applicable state and local child protection agency registries;
• Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Regularly required to talk and/or hear;
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, or sit; use finger dexterity, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl;
• Occasionally required to move or lift items up to 25 pounds in weight;
• Primarily office-based, but may be required to travel to other offices and/or external parties;
• Routinely exposed to typical office noise levels and/or various weather conditions.