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Dcfs Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intern

Chicago, IL

$14.25 - $19/hr

Our internship programs enable qualified students the opportunity to work and learn in an ... Accredited by COA, Charter member of CWLA, Licensed by DCFS JCFS Chicago is an Equal Opportunity ...

Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Our internship programs enable qualified students the opportunity to work and learn in an ... Accredited by COA, Charter member of CWLA, Licensed by DCFS JCFS Chicago is an Equal Opportunity ...

Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Our internship programs enable qualified students the opportunity to work and learn in an ... Accredited by COA, Charter member of CWLA, Licensed by DCFS JCFS Chicago is an Equal Opportunity ...

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Dcfs Internship information

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$8

$15

$21

How much do dcfs internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for dcfs internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or hands-on experiences can I expect during a DCFS internship?

During a DCFS internship, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on projects, such as assisting with case management, observing family visits, helping facilitate client meetings, and supporting investigations alongside experienced caseworkers. Interns often have opportunities to shadow staff, attend court hearings, and contribute to documentation, giving them real-world exposure to child welfare processes. This practical experience is designed to build your understanding of social services, child protection protocols, and interagency collaboration, all while developing your professional skills in a supportive team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DCFS Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DCFS Intern, you generally need coursework or a degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with a strong understanding of child welfare principles. Familiarity with case management software, documentation tools, and sometimes required background checks or mandated reporter training is important. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and organizational skills help interns build trust with clients and manage sensitive situations. These skills ensure interns can effectively support children and families while adhering to legal and ethical standards in child welfare settings.

What is the difference between Dcfs Internship vs Dcfs Case Worker?

AspectDcfs InternshipDcfs Case Worker
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant degree (social work, psychology)Bachelor's or Master's in social work or related field; state licensure often required
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedFull-time, professional environment, direct client interaction
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for training, educational credit, entry-level experienceFull-time role, responsible for case management and child welfare

In summary, a Dcfs Internship provides hands-on experience and educational credit, often for students, while a Dcfs Case Worker is a full-time professional responsible for managing child welfare cases with required credentials and licensure.

What is a DCFS internship?

A DCFS internship is a supervised work experience program offered by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for students interested in social work, child welfare, or related fields. Interns typically assist with case management, family services, and administrative tasks while learning about child protection and social services. The internship provides valuable hands-on experience working with vulnerable children and families, and it often serves as a pathway to a career in public social services. Eligibility requirements, duties, and duration may vary depending on the state's DCFS office and the specific internship program.
More about Dcfs Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Dcfs Internship jobs? Cities with the most Dcfs Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dcfs jobs? The most popular types of Dcfs jobs are:
What states have the most Dcfs Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Dcfs Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dcfs Internship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Internship, School Based Step Up Counselor

Internship, School Based Step Up Counselor

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

Chicago, IL • On-site

Internship

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

This is an unpaid internship. We are seeking a motivated Intern-School Based Step-Up Counselor to provide therapy, community support, and case management to clients using a variety of evidenced informed interventions that focus on targeted behavior, emotional and social skills building, academic support, and linkage to concrete community resources and services.
  • August 2026- July 2027
  • 3-4 days per week
  • Pass criminal and CANTS (DCFS) background check
  • Obtain and maintain certification in IM CANs required.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide individual and family therapy, community support, case management and potentially, therapy groups with a trauma-based focused lens.
  • Work with children and adolescents ages four (4) to twenty-one (21).
  • Assess clients for risk of harm and make appropriate referrals to more intensive services.
  • Participate as a member of the behavioral health team in assigned CPS schools and track referrals that are made.
  • Consult with school personnel, parent/guardian, and outside providers regarding students' progress in treatment and needs.

Learning Opportunities:
  • Develop Clinical Assessment & Intervention Skills.
  • Experience real world application of Case Management & Community Support Coordination with schools, caregivers, and external providers to support student stabilization and progress.
  • Build professional skills in Consult and collaborate as a member of a school-based behavioral health team within CPS or similar school settings.
  • Develop professional skills in ethical clinical documentation; and adherence to mandated reporting laws, and professional boundaries.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree and in MA or MSW graduate program.
  • Ability to act safely and appropriately with clients in the community required.
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain collaborative community partnerships preferred.
  • Ability to communicate in a clear, comprehensible manner, both verbally and in writing.
  • Excellent organization, presentation, and pc/computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) along with other related software.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, pregnancy, any other characteristic protected by law.