Residential Social Worker
About The Position
Wellspring Lutheran Services is hiring a full-time Residential Social Service Worker for its New Directions program in Livonia. The program provides comprehensive, trauma-informed residential services for youth with developmental disabilities and co-occurring emotional and behavioral challenges. Through therapeutic counseling, educational support, life skills development, and recreational opportunities, the program helps young people build skills and confidence for the future. As part of an interdisciplinary clinical team, the worker supports youth in pursuing individual goals, strengthening family connections, navigating educational challenges, developing coping skills, and preparing for greater independence. The role advocates for youth and keeps their needs, strengths, and perspectives central to care planning. Work takes place across the residential campus, community, schools, and family settings, with a primarily day-shift schedule that is flexible according to program and resident needs.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a human behavioral science field or related area that meets program requirements.
- At least one year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities or child welfare populations.
- Strong communication, relationship-building, and advocacy skills.
- Ability to work effectively with youth who have experienced emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, youth-centered care.
- Adaptability, organization, and ability to balance multiple priorities.
- Empathy, respect, and ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
Nice To Haves
- Experience collaborating with families, schools, community partners, or treatment teams.
Responsibilities
- Build relationships with youth and help them develop skills, confidence, and resilience.
- Collaborate with therapists, educators, residential staff, families, and community partners to coordinate care and support individual goals.
- Advocate for youth in educational, family, and community settings.
- Encourage communication and family engagement and create opportunities for meaningful connection.
- Support youth through transitions, including preparation for discharge, community integration, and long-term stability.
- Guide youth through difficult moments, help them develop coping strategies, and contribute to plans promoting safety, emotional regulation, and personal growth.
- Participate in family team meetings, collaborate with schools, support educational success, and coordinate services.
- Provide aftercare support and participate in youth programming activities.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching.
- Employee Assistance Program (SupportLinc).
- Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Opportunities for growth and advancement within Child & Family Services.
- Collaborative, multidisciplinary treatment teams.
- Meaningful work that positively impacts youth and families.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
