Job Description
Work That Matters. Support That Lasts. At VisionQuest (VQ) , we serve children, youth, and families during some of the most critical moments of their lives. Our teams help young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and move toward brighter futures. VQ is a national child, youth, and family services organization providing residential programming, community-based services, and in-home support across the United States. We partner with state and federal agencies to deliver services where the need is greatest and to strengthen the communities we serve. Every role at VQ contributes to meaningful impact. Whether working directly with youth or supporting the professionals who serve them, your work helps create opportunity and stability for the next generation. Why build your career at VQ? Purpose-driven work Every role contributes to helping children and families succeed. Fair and responsible compensation We are committed to transparent and equitable pay practices. Career growth opportunities Internal promotions and leadership development pathways. Professional leadership culture Accountable, supportive leadership focused on long-term success. Comprehensive Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage Flexible Spending Accounts Employee Assistance Program Company-paid Life and Short-Term Disability 401(k) with employer match At VQ, we are building more than programs. We are building careers that make a difference. The Truancy Caseworker provides intervention and prevention services to youth and families struggling with school attendance. This role combines case management, mentoring, and family engagement to address barriers to regular school attendance, support student success, and prevent out-of-home placements related to truancy. The Caseworker works closely with schools, families, and community partners to improve student engagement and outcomes while ensuring compliance with truancy laws and court mandates.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Family & Youth Support Provide direct case management and mentoring to youth and families referred for truancy concerns. Meet with families in the home, school, and community to assess needs and identify barriers to school attendance. Support families in developing strategies to address truant behaviors and strengthen natural support systems. Assist families in ensuring children attend school daily and intervene promptly when absences occur. Provide crisis intervention and connect families to community resources when needed. Collaboration with Schools & Community Partners Build strong working relationships with schools across Luzerne County to coordinate truancy intervention services. Participate in Student Assistance Program (SAP) meetings, Student Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) meetings, and other school-based conferences. Collaborate with caseworkers, probation officers, and Luzerne County Children and Youth Services as appropriate. Represent the program in community meetings, court proceedings, and with partner agencies. Case Planning & Documentation Complete assessments and monthly service plans for each family on caseload. Develop individualized Student Attendance Improvement Plans in partnership with schools and families. Maintain timely and accurate documentation of all contacts, interventions, progress notes, and outcomes. Provide written reports and testify in court when required. Program Outcomes & Compliance Collect and track data to monitor program effectiveness, including referrals, attendance outcomes, and successful case completions. Ensure all services comply with agency, state, and federal requirements. Uphold confidentiality and adhere to all VisionQuest policies and child welfare regulations. Professional Development & Teamwork Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities. Educate families and community members about truancy laws, responsibilities, and available supports. Work collaboratively with supervisors and colleagues to enhance service delivery and achieve program goals. Other tasks and responsibilities as assigned by supervisor(s). SKILLS & ABILITIES
Excellent observational and documentation skills. Strong verbal and written communication abilities. Ability to remain neutral and objective in emotionally charged situations. Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and understanding of diverse family systems. Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress or crisis situations. Strong organizational skills with attention to detail. Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree in sociology, psychology, counseling, education, criminal justice, social work, human services, or related field. 1 year employment experience in the child welfare field working with children and/or adolescents in a social service setting. QUALIFICATIONS
Must be 21 years of age or older. Flexible schedule (evening, weekends, holidays) to facilitate program services. May be required to pass a drug test. Cleared background checks from appropriate entities, including Child Abuse and Neglect and FBI criminal background. May be required to obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid and Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) certification. Must have a valid driver's license and be eligible to drive to facilitate program services. WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
May lift and carry up to 10 pounds frequently, up to 20 pounds occasionally, up to 50 pounds infrequently. Performs tasks that may involve standing or walking 50% of the day; sitting 50% of the day. May bend, stoop, reach and grasp as necessary. Must be able to provide First Aid and CPR. Must be able to perform physical holds as instructed in Crisis Prevention Intervention training (CPI). The pay range for this role is: 20 - 20 USD per hour(492 Truancy Services)
