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Adoption Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Austin Humane Society

Adoption Counselor

Austin, TX

Adoption Counselor Position: Adoption Counselor Reports to: Adoption Supervisor Organization Formed in 1952, The Austin Humane Society is Austin's largest, longest standing, no kill, non-profit ...

The Animal Foundation

Adoption Counselor

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$14/hr

Adoption Supervisor REVISED: 07/24/2025 SUPERVISES: None REVIEWED: 04/26/2025 Position Summary: Assists in finding quality, caring homes for adoption animals based upon information obtained through ...

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How much do adoption jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for adoption in the United States is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Adoption vs Child Welfare Specialist?

AspectAdoptionChild Welfare Specialist
Required CredentialsSocial work degree, licensing, certification in adoptionSocial work degree, licensing, child welfare certification
Work EnvironmentAdoption agencies, private or public organizationsChild protective services, government agencies
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government, private agenciesGovernment agencies, child protective services
Common Search & ComparisonPeople compare adoption roles with child welfare specialists due to overlapping responsibilities

While both adoption professionals and child welfare specialists work within the child services industry, adoption focuses on facilitating the legal and emotional process of placing children with families. Child welfare specialists primarily work to protect children, investigate abuse, and ensure safety. Understanding these differences helps individuals choose the right career path or service focus within the child services sector.

Can I get paid for adopting a child?

Adoption professionals, such as social workers or agency staff, typically do not receive payment for adopting a child; instead, they may receive a salary or hourly wage for their work. In some cases, foster care providers or kinship caregivers may receive financial assistance or stipends to cover expenses related to caring for the child, but these are not payments for the adoption itself. Adoption is generally a legal process focused on providing a permanent home rather than a paid employment opportunity.

How to become an adoption worker?

To become an adoption worker, typically a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field is required, along with relevant experience in child welfare or social services. Many states also require licensure or certification, such as a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) credential. Strong communication, assessment skills, and knowledge of adoption laws are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by adoption caseworkers, and how can they effectively manage them?

Adoption caseworkers often encounter challenges such as balancing large caseloads, navigating complex family dynamics, and adhering to legal and ethical requirements. Managing these demands requires strong organizational skills, empathy, and effective communication with all parties involved, including birth parents, adoptive families, and legal professionals. Support from supervisors and colleagues, regular training, and self-care practices are crucial for maintaining resilience and providing the best outcomes for children and families.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Adoption Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adoption Specialist, you need a background in social work, psychology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and licensure. Familiarity with case management software, legal documentation systems, and child welfare regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help build trust with families and navigate complex emotional situations. These abilities ensure ethical, effective placements and support the well-being of both children and adoptive families.

What is the highest paying job to work with children?

The highest paying jobs working with children typically include pediatric surgeons, pediatric anesthesiologists, and specialized medical professionals, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. These roles require advanced medical degrees, certifications, and extensive training, and they involve working in hospitals or specialized clinics.

Can I adopt if I have diabetes?

Adoption agencies generally do not exclude individuals with diabetes, as long as the condition is well-managed and does not impair your ability to care for a child. Applicants may need to provide medical documentation and undergo a health assessment as part of the home study process.

What are adoption professionals and what do they do?

Adoption professionals are individuals or organizations that assist with the legal and emotional process of adopting a child. They include social workers, adoption agencies, attorneys, and counselors who help birth parents, adoptive parents, and children through every step of the adoption journey. Their responsibilities may involve assessing prospective adoptive families, matching children with families, providing counseling, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met to finalize an adoption. These professionals are crucial for ensuring that the adoption process is ethical, legal, and in the best interest of the child.
More about Adoption jobs
What cities are hiring for Adoption jobs? Cities with the most Adoption job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Adoption jobs? The most popular types of Adoption jobs are:
What states have the most Adoption jobs? States with the most job openings for Adoption jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Adoption jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Adoption jobs are:
Adoption jobs near you

Adoption Navigator

Adoption Network Cleveland

Cleveland, OH • Hybrid

$17.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Adoption Navigator

Job Posting

OhioKAN Kinship and Adoption Navigator (Full-Time)

Department:                               Programs

Supervisor:                                  Director of Programs

FLSA Status:                                 Non-exempt

Starting Salary Range:              $17.50 - $20.00/hour

Telework:                                     Partially remote available - must be willing to commute to the office in Cleveland, OH regularly.

Background of Organization: Adoption Network Cleveland recognizes adoption as a complex, lifelong and intergenerational journey for all those whose lives are touched by it. Founded in 1988, Adoption Network Cleveland provides programs and services to connect and empower all members of the adoption triad (adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents); adoptive, kinship and foster care families; youth in foster care; foster care alumni; siblings; and the professionals who serve them. Recognizing that a unified voice is a strong voice, Adoption Network Cleveland promotes community awareness and social change by advocating for progressive policies and openness in adoption and child welfare practice, policy and law. 

Make a Real Difference in Your Community with Adoption Network Cleveland and OhioKAN!

Are you passionate about helping families thrive? Do you believe in the power of connection and support to transform lives? Join Adoption Network Cleveland as part of our OhioKAN team as a Kinship and Adoption Navigator and be the change kinship and adoptive families in your community need!

What is OhioKAN? OhioKAN (Ohio Kinship and Adoption Navigator) is a groundbreaking statewide program that supports kinship caregivers and adoptive families. We connect families to the resources, services, and social supports they need to grow stronger and create lasting stability. With a mission to empower families and build community resilience, OhioKAN makes a direct, positive impact on lives across Ohio.

Your Role: Kinship and Adoption Navigator - As a Kinship and Adoption Navigator at Adoption Network Cleveland, you’ll work one-on-one with families to assess their needs, provide personalized guidance, and connect them with essential resources. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to make a meaningful difference, one family at a time.

What You’ll Do:

  • Empower Families: Partner with caregivers to identify their goals and access services that improve family well-being and resilience.
  • Build Connections: Collaborate with community partners and curate resources that support families across your region. Organizes and hosts events for outreach, public education, and to support kinship and adoptive families.
  • Make an Impact: Advocate for families, host educational and outreach events, and provide in-home or community-based support.
  • Grow and Learn: Participate in continuous training, contribute to program improvements, and share insights to better serve families statewide.

What You Bring:

  • Education/Experience: A background in Social Work, Public Health, Education, or a related field is a plus, but lived experience as an adoptee, individual raised in a kinship family, kinship caregiver, adoptive parent, or foster parent is highly valued.
  • Skills: Strong communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills. You’re empathetic, detail-oriented, and ready to take initiative.
  • Passion: A commitment to helping families overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
  • Tech-Savvy: Comfort with Microsoft Office and managing case records in a database.
  • Flexibility: Willingness to travel as needed with access to reliable transportation.

Why Join OhioKAN?

  • Purpose-Driven Work: Every day, you’ll be helping families navigate their unique journeys with confidence and support.
  • Team Spirit: Collaborate with a passionate, supportive team dedicated to building stronger communities.
  • Professional Growth: Gain access to ongoing training and learning opportunities to enhance your skills.
  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a full-time role with the flexibility to meet families where they are—in their homes, communities, or at partner agencies.

Additional Perks:

  • Competitive pay and benefits.
  • Opportunities to grow your career in a supportive, mission-focused organization.
  • The satisfaction of knowing your work truly matters.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting Pay Range: $17.50 - $20/hour. Benefits include health insurance, retirement plan, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time off.  Reimbursement of travel expenses.

Ready to Apply?  Send Resume and Cover Letter to HR-D------------. First consideration will be given to applicants who apply by Friday, July 10, 2026. The position is open until filled.

Apply