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Adoption Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Adoption Counselor

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$15.50/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The Adoption Counselor is responsible for helping potential adopters find a companion animal, create creative marketing material for individual animals to decrease ...

Adoptions Specialist The Arizona Humane Society is seeking a dedicated and motivated full-time Adoptions Specialist to join our team and work Thursday through Monday, 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM, at our ...

Perform multiple adoption eligibility tasks such as reviewing and processing status reports, preparing packets, making copies as requested, managing electronic files, open and appropriately ...

Adoption Specialist

Flint, MI · On-site

$44K - $54K/yr

Adoption Specialists partner with individuals seeking to open their homes and hearts to welcome children who have experienced trauma. This role offers you the opportunity to share your unique talents ...

Open Adoption & Family Services, a program of Boys & Girls Aid , is seeking a full - time (32hrs) Counselor to join our team. Are you a skilled professional who is committed to non-directive, all ...

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Adoption information

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$13

$21

$26

How much do adoption jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Adoption job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,749 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Adoption Counselor

Adoption Counselor

Humane Society of Missouri

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Humane Society Of Missouri rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Are you passionate about animals and dedicated to making a difference in their lives? Look no further!

The Humane Society of Missouri is seeking a compassionate and enthusiastic individual to join our team as an Adoption Counselor. If you have a deep love for animals, a desire to provide them with the best care possible, and a commitment to promoting their well-being, then this is the perfect opportunity for you. Join us in our mission to create a world where every animal is treated with kindness and respect.

Responsibilities include:

  • feeding, watering, walking, kennel sanitation, and general care of the animals
  • determining if animals are ready to go home, and
  • forming strong relationships with clients who are making adoption decisions.

The Adoption Counselor takes care of dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small companion pets. This person also interacts with the public daily to connect pets and people through the adoption process. We are looking for people who have animal handling experience, strong customer service skills, and are passionate about helping animals find their forever homes!

This is a full-time, entry-level position, which may include weekend hours.

Starting pay is $16/hour. Qualified candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, at least 3 months of customer service experience and animal handling experience is preferred.

The Humane Society of Missouri offers competitive wages and excellent benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Short-term disability
  • Long-term disability (100% employer paid)
  • Retirement Savings Plan
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid time off, including vacation, sick and holiday pay

Employees are eligible for the following discounts after 90 days of employment:

  • 40% off veterinary services
  • 15% off prescription diets
  • $50 off adoptions at HSMO
  • 10% off gift shop