Careers

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Work With Us

A job that makes a difference

Make a difference on Team DABSJ and choose a career in Grand Rapids, MI that’s dedicated to creating better futures for children and families. When you work at DABSJ, you get:

Now Hiring: Chief Financial Officer

DABSJ is looking for our next Chief Financial Officer! We are pleased to partner with Palladian West to conduct a comprehensive search process for our next CFO. We invite qualified candidates to apply for this exciting leadership opportunity.

Be You at DABSJ

At DABSJ, we are developing a workplace where everyone can BE. That means we all feel like we belong, we bring our whole selves to work, and everyone contributes to making a difference for the children and families we serve. 

We know there are significant systemic disparities leading to an overrepresentation of children of color and those who identify as LGBTQ+ within the child welfare system. At the same time, these same groups are underrepresented in the child welfare workforce. DABSJ is committed to building a team of exceptional talent that reflects the communities we serve.

DABSJ values equity, diversity, and inclusion. All are welcomed, valued, and belong. We respect your lived experience and passion for this crucial work. We encourage those with direct experience in the child welfare system, people of color, people who identify as LGBTQ+, and people from historically marginalized populations in our communities to consider applying and joining us on Team DABSJ.

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A badge from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation stating "You Are Welcome Here" for 2025-2026, by all children-all families.

An innovative workspace for

Inspiring Work

The DABSJ campus features homes for youth, 30 acres of wooded nature, and our new state-of-the-art main building featuring: 

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A Place to Grow

“I am honored to be part of an organization that welcomes all, encourages and empowers staff to be advocates and leaders, and whose values are encouraged and recognized.”

-Joy, Adoption and Licensing Manager - 25 years at DABSJ

A woman holding an award stands in front of a slide displaying her recognition as the "Child Welfare Advocate of the Year."

Work that Benefits

In addition to making a difference for children and families, many positions offer benefits including:

The Sanctuary Model

At DABSJ, we center our work on understanding and healing from trauma. Using the nationally recognized Sanctuary Model, we create a safe, supportive environment for children, families, and staff alike. Sanctuary guides how we communicate, collaborate, and care, shifting the focus from “what’s wrong with this person?” to “what happened to this person?” Join us in a workplace built on safety, respect, and shared commitment to healing.

“I love my team as I feel consistently supported, appreciated, and set up for success. I would be unable to do my job the way that I do without an amazing, supportive team.”

-DABSJ Employee

Come See Us!

Meet Team DABSJ and learn about openings at upcoming recruitment events

No event found!
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DABSJ is a private non-sectarian nonprofit organization that serves vulnerable children and families from the entire community. Our vision is a safe nurturing home for every child and a supportive community for every family.

Questions? Call us at 616.451.2021 or email us at humanresources@dabsj.org.

In compliance with the Affordable Care Act Reporting Requirements, all eligible employees may request their Form 1095-C by emailing humanresources@dabsj.org, by sending requests to 2172 Dean Lake Avenue NE Grand Rapids MI 49505, or by calling 616-451-2021 should you have any questions about this form.

The image shows a logo with the words "All children families individuals" and a rainbow-colored arc below.

DABSJ is inclusive and welcoming – from our team members, to the children we serve, to the families we license as foster parents. You could play a part in providing homes and hope for children who need a place to be themselves.