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Adoption Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Washington County SPCA

Adoption Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21/hr

The Adoption Specialist provides excellent customer service by phone, email, and in person and engages prospective adopters through a conversational, inclusive, and judgment-free adoption process.

Sacramento SPCA

Adoption Counselor

Sacramento, CA · On-site

The Adoption Counselor, under the direction of the Adoptions Manager, will deliver excellent service by assisting the public with specific adoption service needs, answering questions and concerns ...

Necco, LLC

Adoption Specialist

Fairmont, WV · On-site

The Adoption Specialist ensures safe, ethical, and timely placements by conducting assessments, coordinating services, and providing ongoing support from intake through post-adoption stabilization.

SPCA of Wake County

Adoption Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21/hr

The Adoption Specialist provides excellent customer service by phone, email, and in person and engages prospective adopters through a conversational, inclusive, and judgment-free adoption process.

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 ...

NECCO

Adoption Specialist

Fairmont, WV · On-site

The Adoption Specialist ensures safe, ethical, and timely placements by conducting assessments, coordinating services, and providing ongoing support from intake through post-adoption stabilization.

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How much do adoption jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 an adoption professional?

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.

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 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 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.

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:

Adoption jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adoption job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,749 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Adoption Specialist ~ Southeast Michigan

Detroit, MI

Samaritas
Non-Profits • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Samaritasexternal

$43K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Now Hiring: Adoption Specialist
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Employment Type: Full Time
Pay: $43,888 per year
Help Children Find Permanency. Support Families for Life.

Are you passionate about helping children achieve safe, stable, and permanent homes? Join Legacy Adoption Services as an Adoption Specialist and play a vital role in guiding children and families through the adoption journey. Do you live in the Greater Detroit area and hold a degree in Social Work or a related human services field? If you're driven to help children in foster care find their “forever family,” we want you on our team! Legacy Adoption Services is seeking a dedicated Adoption Specialist to provide compassionate, child-centered case management and support throughout the adoption journey with families in the greater Detroit area or where families need our support. Bi-lingual in Spanish a plus. Child welfare experience (foster care, adoption, licensing) preferred.

In this role, you will provide advanced case management, coordinate placements, and support adoptive families—making a lasting impact on the lives of children in need of permanency.

$3,000 bonus available after completion of required, new hire program training

About Legacy Adoption Services

Legacy Adoption Services (LAS) is a trusted adoption provider in Michigan, formed through a long-standing partnership between Samaritas and Wellspring Lutheran Services. For over four decades, LAS has supported children who cannot be raised by their birth families by connecting them with safe, loving adoptive homes.

We are committed to providing compassionate, responsive, and high-quality services that create stability and lasting family connections.

Apply today and be part of a legacy of service and impact!

About the Role

The Adoption Specialist provides comprehensive case management services to children and adoptive families, ensuring all services meet contractual, regulatory, and accreditation standards. This role supports the full adoption process, from family preparation through finalization and post-placement services.

What You’ll Do

Adoption Planning and Case Management

  • Manage a caseload of children and families throughout the adoption process
  • Maintain knowledge of adoption regulations, policies, and best practices
  • Prepare, assess, and support families through the adoption readiness process

Matching and Placement Coordination

  • Coordinate the matching process between children and prospective adoptive families
  • Facilitate pre-placement planning and transition activities
  • Coordinate placement logistics, including transportation of children as needed

Legal and Court Involvement

  • Attend court hearings, case conferences, and required meetings
  • Complete all legal documentation and requirements for adoption finalization
  • Ensure compliance with all state and agency regulations

Collaboration and Partnerships

  • Work closely with foster care staff, adoption agencies, and the Department of Health and Human Services
  • Participate in recruitment and community engagement activities

Documentation and Post-Placement Support

  • Maintain accurate, timely case records and reports
  • Track client progress and outcomes in accordance with program standards
  • Provide post-placement services and ongoing support to adoptive families
Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field required
  • State of Michigan licensure preferred

Experience

  • At least one year of experience in adoption services, child welfare, or a related field preferred

Skills and Knowledge

  • Strong understanding of child welfare and adoption processes
  • Ability to manage complex cases and multiple priorities
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Attention to detail and strong documentation abilities
  • Commitment to supporting children and families through permanent placement
Additional Requirements
  • Valid driver’s license with a good driving record
  • Reliable transportation and proof of automobile insurance
  • Ability to travel locally as needed
Why Join Legacy Adoption Services
  • Make a lasting impact by helping children find permanent, loving homes
  • Work in a mission-driven, collaborative environment
  • Be part of a long-standing, respected adoption program
  • Grow your career in child welfare and adoption services
Apply Today

If you are committed to helping children achieve permanency and supporting families through the adoption journey, we encourage you to apply.

Join Legacy Adoption Services and help build forever families.

#socialwork #childwelfare #adoption #humanservices #michiganjobs

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