Foster Care Case Manager

I. JOB SUMMARY The Independent Living Plus (ILP) Case Manager acts as an advocate for children ages 16-19 who are placed in a staff supported independent living program. The ILP Case Manager provides professional contracted case management services, formulates and assesses case plans, and appears in court as required by the case plan. The ILP Case Manager works with the Employment Specialist and ILP Resident Advisors to ensure that children are receiving necessary life skills training to assist the youth in transitioning to a least restrictive placement. II. DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Oversee and ensure the well-being of the child by providing casework and supportive services; ensure services are completed for the child, following up as necessary; provide referrals to the child. Formulate case plans, write case reports, complete required legal documentation, and maintain case records within agency and DHHS time frames and requirements; perform associated office work, such as compiling statistics, preparing reports, maintaining files as necessary. Represent the agency in court and accurately testify to the progress of cases; attend all required hearings and meetings pursuant to cases, clients, children, and families; make assessments and recommendations based on the best interest of the child. Operate within the guidelines of agency and DHHS policies and procedures and the programs Operations Manual. Demonstrate commitment to the social sector with a passion for MCHSs mission and vision. Perform other duties as assigned by the Foster Care ILP Supervisor III. BASIC COMPETENCIES Education and Experience: Bachelors degree in a human behavioral science such as Social Work or a related discipline where 25% of the course credits earned toward the degree are in human behavioral sciences with one (1) to three (3) years experience in a social services agency required. Masters of Social Work (MSW) with experience working in a foster care program preferred. Knowledge Requirements: Computer and software applications (Windows, MS Office, Internet, MiSACWIS applications, etc.) necessary to perform the duties of the position. Principles and practices of social work, including the NASW Code of Ethics. Michigan Department of Human Services policies and procedures. Family and child dynamics. Skills and Abilities Needed: Effectively engage children and adults. Manage time and multiple priorities, meet deadlines. Effectively communicate verbally and in writing. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public. Exercise professional judgment in making decisions. Handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation. Attend training and maintain necessary certifications and licenses. Maintain a Michigan drivers license and driving record that allows the operation of an agency or personal vehicle for agency business or to transport clients as needed. IV. JOB SETTING Work is performed in the office, clients' homes, treatment and residential facilities, courts and work sites. Frequent travel may involve exposure to seasonal weather conditions, unsanitary conditions in homes, communicable diseases and unsafe environments. Duties may require contact with persons who are hostile or abusive, or with children who are upset and confused. Work may involve operation of a keyboard and viewing a computer screen for multiple hours daily as well as sitting and standing for extended periods of time as necessary. V. Other Information MCHS is an equal opportunity employer where employment is based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination because of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected characteristics as established by law. This policy extends to all policies and procedures related to the recruitment and hiring, compensation, benefits, termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Furthermore, this description is a summary of the responsibilities, duties, skills, experience abilities, and qualifications associated with this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may be changed at any time at the discretion of the CEO. Employment is still considered at-will in which MCHS or the employee may with or without notice, with or without reason terminate employment. MCHS reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.