Transitional Living Program Caseworker

Shelter Youth & Family Services•Arlington Heights, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Transitional Living Program Caseworker manages a caseload of up to ten male-identifying youth ages 17.5–21 who participate in the transitional living program. The Caseworker provides individualized case management, guidance, and support to help young adults develop the skills needed for independence and a successful transition into adulthood. This includes developing and monitoring service plans, connecting participants with community resources, and supporting progress toward housing stability, education, employment, life skills, and overall well-being. The Caseworker maintains accurate documentation, monitors participants’ progress, and collaborates with program staff and community partners to ensure appropriate services are provided in a safe, structured, and supportive environment. The position provides client services and case management in compliance with Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) rules and regulations, under the direction and supervision of the Residential Director. This is an in-office position at Shelter Youth & Family Services’ Transitional Living Program in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Work outside regular hours may occasionally be necessary for urgent matters or operational needs. Scheduling or work-arrangement flexibility may be considered over time, subject to performance, organizational needs, and advance supervisor approval.

Requirements

Must be at least 25 years of age in accordance with Illinois DCFS Licensing Standards for Transitional Living Programs.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school required.
Must successfully obtain a Child Welfare License (CWEL) within three months of employment.
Demonstrated commitment to and understanding of Shelter’s mission, vision, and values.
Valid Illinois driver’s license, an automobile, and proof of Illinois auto insurance required.
Must complete a medical and T.B. test.
Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 according to the latest CDC guidelines.
Must be fingerprinted by the State of Illinois and submit to a full background check through DCFS.
Must submit official educational transcripts from the last school at which a degree was awarded.
Must become CPR, CPI, and Think Trauma certified within 30 days of employment.
Ability to lift 40 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Degree in a Human Services field preferred.
CWEL preferred.

Responsibilities

Participate in referral and intake activities, including screening referrals, arranging pre-placement visits, establishing admission dates, arranging case transfers to Shelter, and processing required paperwork for DCFS and the Residential Director.
Conduct periodic assessments required by DCFS, including CANS, Risk Assessment (CERAP), and Integrated Assessment.
Prepare court reports and attend required court hearings.
Prepare DCFS service plans and attend DCFS Administrative Case Reviews.
Complete weekly and monthly paperwork required for DCFS monitoring.
Participate in Child & Family Team Meetings and quarterly client transition staffings.
Provide financial competency courses to clients based on DCFS training requirements.
Ensure each client receives recommended services.
Meet weekly with each resident to assess their well-being, program adjustment, services received, and unmet needs.
Refer and link residents to external service providers and monitor those services on an ongoing basis.
Ensure youth are current with required medical exams, including physical, dental, vision, and hearing exams.
Maintain documentation in the DCFS SACWIS system in accordance with DCFS policies and procedures.
Maintain an agency case record for each resident in accordance with DCFS policy.
Coordinate discharge planning and provide indicated aftercare services in accordance with DCFS policy and procedure.
Comply with agency policies and procedures and the DCFS Code of Ethics for Child Welfare Professionals.
Perform other duties assigned by the Residential Director.