Independent Living Specialist

The-Family-Initiative-1; Dallas (TX); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) match

Paid holidays

Personal leave

Longevity bonus

Job summary

TFI Family Services in Dallas, TX, is seeking an Independent Living Specialist to promote the well-being of older youth in the Permanency Services Program. You will participate in staff meetings, coordinate with other agencies, and ensure accurate documentation for youth 14+.

The role requires a bachelor’s or associate degree with two years local experience, or equivalent college credits, plus ability to support youth toward independent living, including transport and case planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate degree plus two years of relevant social/human services work experience.
• Alternative: 60 college credits plus two years of relevant work experience or 90 credits plus one year.
• Experience in social services or work with at-risk families is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Independent Living and PAL services, including assessments and documentation for youth 14+.
• Evaluate youth needs, safety, family strengths, and eligibility for services.
• Collaborate with Permanency Specialists and Care Management for placements and guidance.
• Maintain accurate case records and submit monthly reports and evaluations.
• Monitor PAL service delivery and coordinate with public and private agencies.
• Participate in case planning conferences and statewide teen events.
• Promote cultural respect and transport youth as needed while meeting driving requirements.

Skills

Case coordination

Documentation

Youth services

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree or Associate degree + 2 years experience

Job description

****Average hourly rate is $18.69 (including wage, incentives, bonuses, overtime, shift differential, etc.)****

Do you like working with children and families? Do you want the ability to work hybrid? Then Texas Family Initiative has the job for you!

Position Overview: As an Independent Living Specialist, you will promote the well-being of older youth in the Permanency Services Program, participates in staff meetings and trainings and coordinates with staff from other agencies involved in providing services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate Independent Living and Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) services, including assessments (ACLSA, NYTD) and documentation for youth 14+.
• Evaluate youth needs, safety, family strengths, and eligibility for Extended Care, Return to Care, and Trial Independence returns.
• Work with Permanency Specialists and Care Management to secure placements and ensure youth receive guidance toward independent living/emancipation.
• Maintain accurate, complete case records and submit required monthly reports, statistics, and evaluative documentation.
• Monitor PAL contract service delivery and collaborate with public and private agencies using best-practice standards.
• Participate in case planning conferences and assist with statewide/regional teen events and Peaks Camp.
• Promote cultural respect, maintain regular attendance, and transport youth as needed while meeting agency driving requirements.

Qualifications:

• An accredited bachelor’s degree or accredited associate degree plus two (2) years of relevant work experience OR 60 accredited college credit hours plus two (2) years relevant work experience or 90 accredited college credit hours plus one (1) year of relevant work experience. Examples of relevant work experience in social, human, or protective services include paid or volunteer work within social service agencies or communities providing services to families or other at-risk populations.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary, health benefits, 401(k) match, personal leave, paid holidays, longevity bonus, and more.

TFI Family Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.