MSW Contract Worker - Ventura/Santa Barbara

Get to Know US

For more than a century, Vista Del Mar Child & Family Services (VDM) has been dedicated to supporting children and families across Los Angeles County through high-quality programs and compassionate care. Our goal is to help children and families build strong foundations that support growth, stability, and meaningful opportunities throughout their lives. Many of the individuals we serve have faced long-standing challenges, and we are committed to meeting families where they are with respect and understanding. Vista Del Mar is guided by values centered on growth, opportunity, fairness, and excellence in service.

Mission

Vista Del Mar provides a trauma-responsive continuum of services to empower children, youth, and families in Southern California to lead fulfilling lives.

Position Overview

The Domestic Adoption Home Study Contract Worke r is responsible for conducting domestic adoption home studies for prospective adoptive families in accordance with California state guidelines. This position ensures that families are thoroughly assessed, prepared, and supported throughout the adoption approval process. The role requires strong clinical writing, interviewing, and assessment skills, as well as knowledge of child welfare and adoption practices.

• LOCATION: San Diego County
• PLEASE NOTE: THIS POSITION REQUIRES AN MSW
• Position Type: Contract, Per Diem
• Contract Terms
• Compensation: Per home study report (flat rate).
• Schedule: Flexible; determined by family needs and agency referrals.
• Location: Combination of remote work (documentation/writing) and in-person home visits.
• Vehicle: Use of personal vehicle
• Home Study Assessments
• Conduct in person interviews with prospective adoptive parents and all household members.
• Perform home visits to evaluate the safety, stability, and readiness of the environment.
• Review required documentation submitted by applicant (medical, financial, criminal background checks, references, etc.).
• Report Writing
• Prepare comprehensive home study reports that clearly assess the family's capacity to meet the needs of children.
• Ensure documentation meets legal, agency, and state adoption standards.
• Submit reports within established deadlines.
• Family Preparation & Education
• Provide guidance to families about the adoption process, expectations, and challenges.
• Discuss adoption-related issues, including attachment, trauma, loss, cultural identity, and openness in adoption.
• Refer families to additional training or supportive services as needed.
• Collaboration & Compliance
• Work collaboratively with adoption program staff
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to agency and state licensing regulations.
• Core Competencies
• Strong interpersonal and interviewing skills.
• Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.
• Commitment to child safety, permanency, and family well-being.

Flat Rate - $650 - (Per domestic home study)

Qualifications

• Master's degree in social work, Counseling, Psychology, or related field (required).
• Strong clinical assessment and writing skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Flexible availability, including evenings and weekends, as needed for family schedules.

Vista Del Mar's Credentials

Our nationally recognized clinical programs have been awarded a Gold Seal by the Joint Commission, the highest level of accreditation possible. In addition, our educational facilities are fully accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and our graduate degree program is recognized worldwide for its high quality of instructions.