Local Long Term Care Ombudsman (Part-time)

Michigan Advocacy Program • Jackson, MI

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking a part-time (20 hours/week) local long term care ombudsman to work in Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee counties and serve as part of the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP). The work week includes frequent meetings with people who live in residential settings throughout the three county service area. This position has optional office space available in the Jackson Legal Services of South Central Michigan office. The office portion of the work can be done entirely remotely or through a hybrid arrangement. Candidates must reside in Jackson, Hillsdale, or Lenawee counties.

MEJI advocates for and represents low-income older adults and people with disabilities on issues related to long term care, healthcare, benefits, elder abuse, and individual rights. MEJI houses the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program; two local long term care ombudsmen; the MI Health Link and MI Choice, Community Transition Services and PACE Ombudsman Programs; and it engages in litigation and systemic advocacy efforts on behalf of vulnerable adults. Visit meji.org for more information.
The Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP) advocates for the health, safety, well-being, and rights of residents in licensed nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care homes. Ombudsmen work at the direction of the resident and take action only with the resident’s consent. All ombudsmen services are provided free of charge.
MEJI is part of Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS), a non-profit law firm providing free legal services to low-income individuals and older adults through several statewide programs. MSAS is administered by the Michigan Advocacy Program (MAP), which provides access to the justice system for those who need it the most through civil legal aid offices and statewide advocacy programs. MAP’s mission is to advance the safety, independence, and economic stability of those most affected by poverty, racism, and other structurally oppressive systems by increasing access to justice and working for systemic solutions. Visit miadvocacy.org for more information.

Requirements

• Strong interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, advocacy, and time management skills
• Ability to work independently
• Desire to empower and support vulnerable individuals
• Understanding the preferences, needs and concerns of older people and people with disabilities
• Reside in Jackson, Hillsdale, or Lenawee counties

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the field of aging, health care, and/or long term care
• Experience working with members of minority communities
• Experience working as a caregiver, advocate, or service provider in a professional role or from life experiences

Responsibilities

• Making routine facility visits
• Interviewing residents
• Providing information on long term care and residents’ rights to residents and the public
• Negotiating with facility staff regarding resident concerns
• Supporting resident and family councils
• Collaborating with legal and state ombudsman staff
• Maintaining case documentation
• Participating in rigorous on-going training
• Coordinate activities with the other Lansing area ombudsman

Benefits

• Part-time position with an hourly rate starting at $25.48 depending on experience
• Vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays, pro-rated to their part-time status
• May participate in MAP’s 401K retirement plan including employer match for eligible staff after 6 months of employment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed