Summary

This position manages a caseload of participant cases by administering the policies and procedures of the program as directed by the contracting agency and the Program Manager or Supervising Case Manager.

Learns, uses and models principles of the What Works system through evidence-based practices in all interactions with participants and other staff members.

This position reports on program operations to ensure that all requirements of the criminal justice system are met.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Manages a participant caseload using principles of the What Works system. Conducts risk / need assessments and creates individual treatment plans for each assigned participant.

Meets regularly with participants and documents participants’ progress or regress in Company database.

Conducts orientation meetings with new participants to explain program rules and regulations. Verbally explains the participant contract in detail to ensure that the participant understands his / her responsibilities.

Installs electronic monitoring equipment on new participants when necessary.

• Sets participant schedules and specifies all approved activities based on sentencing information. Approves temporary schedule changes for approved activities.
• Collects participant fees on an on-going basis when required. Notifies the Program Manager of delinquent fees.
• Monitors participant compliance with alcohol and / or drug counseling when required.
• Reports all program violations to the appropriate agency or official via the established reporting parameters.
• Troubleshoots equipment problems and relays technical problems to the Program Manager for resolution.
• May review daily summaries each morning and forward reports to the appropriate agency as required.
• Reports on the status of program operations regularly to ensure all necessary documentation is prepared for court review.
• Represents the company in contacts with elected officials and other public figures in the criminal justice system.
• May facilitate psycho-educational / behavior modification groups each week. Documents participants’ attendance, participation and progress in Company database.
• May testify in court regarding participants’ compliance with court orders.
• May screen participants at jail for entry into the program.
• May be required to learn and develop proficiency in Client Services Specialist’s duties, including opening and closing the office, and performing participant intakes, check-ins, breath analysis and drug screens, to provide backup when necessary.

Job Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Two (2) years work experience in related field (Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Human Services or related field would be considered in lieu of the two (2) years experience).
• Bachelor's Degree preferred (Criminal Justice, Human Services or related field).
• Familiar with community corrections systems and current community corrections practices preferred.
• Familiar with community work force needs, public and private agencies and employment services preferred.
• Ability to write clear concise reports in English using correct grammar.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and calculate percentages.
• Must be able to react quickly and appropriately in an emergency situation.
• Bilingual in English / Spanish preferred, but not mandatory.
• Ability to work with computers and the necessary software typically used by the department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Responsible for instructional planning, including, but not limited to, providing written lesson plans and preparation in accordance with the objectives of the instructional program, establishing positive learning expectation standards for all pupils, and evaluating pupils' progress and maintaining current and accurate records of pupils' achievements;
• implements instructional methods, including, but not limited to, applying contemporary principles of learning theory and teaching methodology, drawing from the range of instructional materials available in the school, participating in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques, and providing bulletin board and interest areas reflective of pupils' current work;
• exhibits and applies knowledge of the curriculum content related to subject areas and instructional level; participates in programs to improve student attendance;
• promotes anti-vandalism programs in the schools; establishes and maintains reasonable rules of conduct within the classroom and on school grounds, including, but not limited to, playgrounds, corridors, and lunchrooms, consistent with the provisions of the Chicago Public Schools' Uniform Discipline Code;
• maintains accurate attendance records and seating charts; encourages student growth in self-discipline and positive self-concept;
• ensures fairness in teacher-pupil relationships and exhibits an understanding and respect for students; initiates appropriate conferences with parents, guardians, administrators, and / or ancillary personnel, in accordance with school procedures;
• communicates with parents or guardians and counsels pupils on the pupil's academic progress, attendance, and conduct; participates in in-service meetings and professional staff meetings and uses pertinent information and materials provided;

may coordinate and attend class field trips; may work in extra-curricular and after-school activities; utilizes appropriate resources available in the community.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS : Education and Experience. Successful completion of all student teaching requirements as well as all course work required to obtain the appropriate teaching certificate(s) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education.

License RequirementsTeachers must possess at least one of the following valid teaching license issued by the Illinois State Board of Education : Professional Educator License (PEL), Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) or a Substitute License.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill. Knowledge of subject matter consistent with state certification requirements, knowledge of contemporary principles and practices of teaching, knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques.

Ability to modify instruction to meet student needs, ability to cooperate with the school faculty and administration in the development and implementation of an articulated program of instruction, ability to work effectively with pupils, parents and guardians, staff members, and community representatives in providing an appropriate educational program;

ability to understand the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional patterns of pupils.Skill in the application of contemporary principles and practices of teaching, good oral and written communication skills, good interpersonal skills, skill in exercising sound and professional judgment.

Physical Requirements. Light Work : Exerting up to twenty (20) pounds of force occasionally, or up to ten (10) pounds of force frequently, or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.

Physical demands include the ability to stoop occasionally, reach frequently, handle and finger objects occasionally, talk and hear constantly, frequent use of near visual acuity, and occasional use offer visual acuity.

Reports directly to the Program Manager or Case Manager Supervisor. Provides case management services to young people and their families within agency policies.

This includes home visits, transportation of young people in agency or personal vehicle to court appearances, schools, community resources, etc.

Requires knowledge of trauma exposure, knowledge of the 5 S's of trauma : Safety, Self-Regulation / Soothing, Supportive, Strengths, Self-Care, and an understanding of and recognition of the signs of traumatic stress.

Good verbal communication with employees, referring agencies, community resources and young people / families as well as ability to provide ongoing required written documentation.

Must be able to effectively use both verbal and physical intervention skills with individuals six (6) through twenty-one (21) years of age.

Physical intervention skills require the ability to kneel and return to standing without assistance. Flexible schedule required as the Case Manager may have on-call responsibility.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Document all case management activity and use information in up-to-date case entry notes
• Write and submit timely reports for juvenile court and administrative case reviews, etc.
• Carries a selected load of young people and families as assigned
• Takes leadership in the planning and evaluation of staffings / conferences
• Takes responsibility for presenting intake material to employees and presenting to Intake Committee for final decision as applicable
• Provides data, information, and goals to team. Works with treatment, collateral staff, and families in coordinating efforts to reach goals
• Works closely with co-workers in meeting the needs of young people under care
• Determines visiting schedule for young people (if applicable) and keeps informed about benefits and problems following visits as provided by relevant employees
• Interprets agency's services to assigned young people
• Requires knowledge of typical child and adolescent development and an understanding of trauma exposure and traumatic stress signs and symptoms.
• Practice will include using strategies that support healing, recovery, and that resist re-traumatization
• Engage caregivers, parents, family members and others by sharing strengths and challenges experienced by program participants
• Attends agency and other professional seminars and conferences to increase professional knowledge and skills
• Liaison to DCFS or other agencies (courts, school districts, etc.), communicating goals and progress toward their accomplishment
• Determines with the team needs for community programs (schools, recreation, jobs, vocational opportunities, medical, etc.)
• May provide counseling (if appropriate)
• Liaison / facilitator in community, police and neighborhood situations
• Locates and evaluates resources, facilitates referrals and supportive services
• May cover ACR / court and other duties during employee vacancies / absences.
• Documents contact with young people, family, court sessions, etc. for statistical purposes
• Uses active and reflective listening skills and affirmations to demonstrate respect and empathy, avoiding negative and derogatory labels that foster disrespect
• Understand that behaviors, responses, attitudes, and emotions are a collection of survival skills often developed in response to traumatic experiences
• Maintain confidentiality of employees, volunteers, and program participants to provide a safe environment
• Attend at least two trainings related to being trauma informed in a twelve month period
• Ability to work effectively with program participants and family members, employees and vendors in a culturally diverse environment to support healing and recovery
• Participates in the development and implementation of continuous quality improvement activities as assigned
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Bachelor's degree in the Human Services field
• Must have the Child Welfare Employee Licensure at hire or attend the next scheduled Foundation Training Program for licensure, meet the requirements for attendance and conduct, and pass the Licensure Exam including CERAP (Child Endangerment Risk Assessment Protocol)
• Knowledge of childhood trauma and prior experience working in settings with youth and families that have been exposed to trauma or experiencing traumatic stress preferred
• Knowledge of youth development, adolescent issues, positive youth development / strength based approach preferred
• Personal vehicle or access to vehicle and proof of insurance
• Valid Illinois Driver's license
• No history of child abuse or neglect
• This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt

FIRMAN COMMUNITY SERVICES JOB DESCRIPTION DIVISION : MATERNAL CHILD HEALTH PROGRAM : SUBURBAN MATERNAL CHILD HEALTH SERVICES JOB TITLE : CASE MANAGER REPORTS TO : PROGRAM DIRECTOR JOB LOCATIONS : CHICAGO / Rolling Meadows Basic Responsibilities : Case Managers provides the direct, individual, and group case management services to expectant moms with pre and post-natal care and child health services to their baby 0-1.

Additionally, Case Managers assesses the social service needs of assigned clients whose needs are of moderate complexity and handles each case within the policies, procedures and practices of the agency and works under general supervision of a Supervisor and / or Program Director.

Typical Duties : Carries a caseload of moderate complexity that is representative of the cases contracted to the agency.

Performs social work services involving the application of social work principles and theory in servicing clients within the agency or contracting agencies.

Complete a comprehensive in-home assessment or reassessment of assigned cases within the guidelines established by the agency.

Performs a variety of case management duties, such as, conducting interviews with clients and other appropriate persons for purposes of formulating treatment plans for cases of moderate complexity.

Develops a written care plan for each assigned case. Utilizes basic case management methods and techniques to achieve effective treatment goals.

Increases analytical and psycho / social diagnostic skills and resourcefulness in developing case management processes. Contact other social service agencies regarding client situations, for the purpose of making inter-agency referrals.

Provides linkage of clients to appropriate resources in accordance with specified referral procedures. Develops and maintains close working relationships with other social service agencies and community organizations in the area.

Carries out an increasing role in interpreting the services of the agency to the community and in assisting clients to utilize all available resources in the area.

Identifies and reports gaps in client services to Supervisor / Director. Reports progress on caseload to Supervisor / Director.

Performs record keeping functions as required by agency. Participate in Outreach Activities as assigned by the Supervisor and / or Program Director.

Participates in work of agency standing committees. May be requested to participate or provide assistance in other groups or other special assignments.

Attends professional development and training sessions within and outside of the agency as well as other local professional workshops to enhance job skills and understanding of social service programs.

Collaborates with program Supervisor / Director and appropriate specialist or consultants on specific case related problems.

Performs other tasks as assigned by Supervisor / Director. Qualifications : Successful completion of the requirements for a Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or sociology from an accredited college or university.

At least two years experience in the field. Must demonstrate cultural competence and responsiveness to population being served.

Must have driver’s license and a car with insurance. Ability to work some Saturdays. Must pass criminal background checks.

Must pass pre / post drug tests. Strong analytical, verbal, written and computer skills a must! Powered by JazzHR

Description

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), is a leading not-for-profit organization providing healing, justice and wholeness to people and communities.

For over 150 years, LSSI has made a difference in the lives of children and families, and we're still a strong, viable presence in the State of Illinois, continuing that commitment to making a difference.

LSSI is hiring a full-time Foster Care Caseworker . Make a positive impact that can last for generations as a Foster Care Caseworker at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, an organization that has established a strong legacy of commitment and compassion.

At-risk children and their families are counting on you to provide the full range of foster care and / or adoption services according to state procedures, COA standards, LSSI policies, and best practices.

Benefits and Perks :

LSSI is growing! Come be a part of this rewarding environment, and enjoy the knowledge that you’re helping make a positive difference in the lives of others, as well as these career advantages :

• On Demand Flexible Paydays for earned wages through an app called Dayforce Wallet.
• Competitive salary based upon relevant education, experience and licensure.
• Salary $50,000-$55,000 / Year.
• CWEL sign-on BONUS if you possess a valid CWEL upon hire!
• Monetary Incentive rewards.
• Opportunity for advancement.
• Comprehensive benefits package for Full-Time employees includes healthcare insurance, up to 26 days of paid time off per calendar year, 11 paid holidays, sick time, 403(b) plan, Employee Assistance Program, and flexible hours.
• The paid training you need to learn, grow, and succeed!

Essential Functions :

• Provision of direct services to children and families to facilitate timely permanency outcomes for children with their family of origin, extended family, or foster / adoptive family according to the policies and practices of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, and the Council on Accreditation.
• Monitoring of services to clients by external providers (includes medical, mental health, educational, mentoring, etc.

services), including regular communication with providers and collection of reports to document progress and identified problems with service provision.

• Attending / participating in all scheduled court hearings well prepared to testify in an effective manner that communicates the essential facts and features of the cases.
• In-person contact with children, biological parents, foster / relative care providers as required.
• Monitoring parent-child interactions as required.
• Completion / submission, in a timely manner, of all required contact notes, service plans, court reports, and other documentation required by DCFS and LSSI.
• Performing all tasks required by the written client service plan, based upon the comprehensive integrated assessment, engaging children and families in the process.

Position Qualifications :

In addition to a real passion for working with at-risk children and families, this opportunity requires :

• A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related human services field, a valid driver’s license.
• The ability to pass and obtain State licensing required by Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. If you do not possess a Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL) upon hire, LSSI will work with you to obtain it.
• Child welfare experience is preferred. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Proof of automobile liability insurance and access to transportation for home visits, meetings, and client transportation.

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.