Training Specialist: Motivational Interviewing & Child Welfare Casework

Company: Youth Research Inc.
Location: Rensselaer
Posted on: January 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Full-time, Hybrid $32.98/Hour The Training Specialist for Motivational Interviewing and Child Welfare Casework, under the supervision of the Training Supervisors, will split their time equally between two different training projects, with a focus on Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Child Welfare (CW) training. This dual role requires expertise in adult learning principles, strong communication skills, and the ability to travel regularly throughout New York State to provide classroom and virtual training, coaching, and technical assistance. The Training Specialist is expected to remain current on Motivational Interviewing and Child Welfare practices. The Training Specialist will also carry out all duties and responsibilities listed in detail below. Motivational Interviewing (MI): Conduct Motivational Interviewing (MI) training in-person, statewide. Training topics covered in MI may include the Spirit of MI, engagement strategies, OARS skills, and supporting autonomy. Conduct onsite technical assistance activities which may include consultation, observation, modeling, and coaching of newly or previously trained staff to improve their use of MI. Conduct Trauma Informed Care training in-person/virtual. Training topics covered may include trauma informed awareness and understanding, as well as equity-focused organizational practices. Child Welfare (CW): Conduct classroom and synchronous online training for Child Welfare case workers and supervisors, including foundational courses and advanced topics. Prepare lesson plans for classroom and online deliveries, mock interviews, simulations, and facilitated discussions to reinforce skills and promote caseworker development. Evaluate training effectiveness and analyze data to identify trends and areas for course/delivery improvement. General Duties: Represent YRI at all required project related meetings, trainings, and onsite deliveries/events. Complete required reports and documentation as needed Assist with curriculum updates and revisions, as needed. Provide subject matter expertise. Collaborate with OCFS staff to identify emerging training needs. Other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in social work, public policy, human services, counseling, or similar field. Two or more years of experience in Child Protective Services or Child Welfare casework. One year of experience using Motivational Interviewing techniques directly with client populations. Knowledge of using Motivational Interviewing including Stages of Change, Engagement Strategies, OARS Skills and Supporting Autonomy in client populations. One year of experience delivering training to adult learners, this can include both in-person classroom and virtual training. Ability to lift and carry up to 40lbs. Ability to work variable hours and travel regularly throughout NYS to deliver trainings and attend meetings. Proficiency in MS Office, 365 and software applications needed to perform essential duties. Knowledge of learning and development best practices. A proven track record of high performance managing multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously. Strong organizational skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills. Commitment to teamwork and proactively fostering a collegial work environment. Experience working with diverse groups and populations. Strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the YRI culture. Preferred: Varied experience working as a child welfare caseworker. MSW, LMSW, CASAC or other clinical background. A valid NYS Driver's license is required. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. YRI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. YRI is committed to ensuring equal opportunity for persons with disabilities and workplace diversity. It is the policy of YRI to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities to enable them to perform the essential functions of the position for which they are applying or for which they are employed. YRI does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices and complies with all regulations promulgated by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under title I of the ADA.

Keywords: Youth Research Inc., Schenectady , Training Specialist: Motivational Interviewing & Child Welfare Casework, Education / Teaching , Rensselaer, New York