Care Advocate Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan Inc; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 57,859,200 - 71,635,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PSLF eligibility

Health insurance

Dep Care FSA

Onsite dorm housing

Job summary

Homme Youth and Family Programs is recruiting for a Care Advocate Specialist to support high‑risk youth in Wisconsin. The role emphasizes trauma‑informed care, crisis response, and collaborative case management with a multidisciplinary team.

The position requires a high school diploma or GED, with a preferred Bachelor's in Human Services. Certification in CPI/POSC is expected within 90 days; a valid driver's license is required, and the program supports PSLF eligibility and onsite housing.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree in Human Services preferred.
• 1+ year of experience working with high-risk adolescents in residential, school, or community settings.
• Experience in crisis management and behavioral support planning.
• CPI/POSC certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
• Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to respond to emergencies and, if necessary, assist in physical restraint.

Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing strength-based behavioral support plans.
• Conducting client screenings and follow-up case management.
• Coaching and mentoring staff in trauma-sensitive care.
• Leading recreational, educational, and psycho-educational groups (including Aggression Replacement Training).
• Providing crisis counseling, advocacy, and guidance.
• Maintaining accurate documentation and compliance with licensing standards.
• Collaborating with supervisors, therapists, and external partners to support each client’s progress.

Skills

Crisis management

Trauma-informed care

Behavioral support planning

Client screening

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services

CPI/POSC certification

Tools

Driver’s license

Job description

Homme Youth and Family Programs (Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI) Full-Time | 2nd Shift (2 PM–10 PM or 3 PM–11 PM weekdays; every other weekend 12–14 hr shifts) $20.50/hr (Weekdays) | $22.50/hr (Weekends) 4-day work week

About Us

Homme Youth and Family Programs is a nationally recognized treatment program serving children and adolescents facing challenges such as trauma, delinquency, victimization, AODA, cognitive behavioral issues, dual diagnosis, and independent living support.

Our multidisciplinary team of counselors, therapists, advocates, and teachers provides wraparound care through psychiatric, educational, clinical, and milieu services. Using a trauma-informed approach, we help youth and families recover, grow, and reintegrate into the community.

What You’ll Do

As a Care Advocate Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in creating a safe, therapeutic environment for youth. Responsibilities include:

Developing and implementing strength-based behavioral support plans

Conducting client screenings and follow-up case management

Coaching and mentoring staff in trauma-sensitive care

Leading recreational, educational, and psycho-educational groups (including Aggression Replacement Training)

Providing crisis counseling, advocacy, and guidance

Maintaining accurate documentation and compliance with licensing standards

Collaborating with supervisors, therapists, and external partners to support each client’s progress

Who We’re Looking For

You are compassionate, patient, and resilient. You know how to set boundaries while remaining flexible, and you thrive in challenging environments where you can make a difference.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree in Human Services preferred

1+ year of experience working with high-risk adolescents in residential, school, or community settings

Experience in crisis management and behavioral support planning

CPI/POSC certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days)

Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record

Ability to respond to emergencies and, if necessary, assist in physical restraint

Working for Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI includes:

Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible spending accounts (health & dependent care)

Subsidized dorm-style staff housing onsite

Paid time off + 10 paid holidays
403B retirement contributions
Paid training in trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices

Employee assistance program

Service awards and recognition

LSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Travel Required

Yes . Frequent local day trips required.

Qualifications

Education

Preferred

Bachelor Degree or better in Hum. Serv. or Related Field.

Experience

Preferred

1 year:

Residential experience with youth

Licenses & Certifications

Required

Driver's License

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.