Team Lead, Independent Group Home - Full Time - Grand Rapids, MI

Samaritas; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 51,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Samaritas seeks a Team Lead, Independent Living Plus (ILP) in Grand Rapids, MI to lead staff, mentor youth, and coordinate services for youth aging out of foster care. This role blends leadership with hands-on case management and program operations to create lasting independence for youths.

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field, with state licensure preferred and at least 1 year in child welfare.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field; state licensure preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience in child welfare or related field preferred.
• Strong case management and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to navigate complex systems and coordinate resources.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to ILP home staff in accordance with agency and regulatory standards.
• Direct case management for up to 6 youth, supporting mental health, education, employment, housing and life skills.
• Oversee upkeep and operations of the ILP home, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.
• Collaborate with community providers and referral sources to support youth goals and transitions.
• Complete and review treatment plans, case notes and reports; ensure high-quality documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Team coordination

Communication

Crisis response

Organizational skills

Cultural competency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related human services field

Job description

Now Hiring: Team Lead, Independent Living Plus (ILP)

Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Status: Full Time
Wage: $51,022 to $54,124 annually
Schedule: Varied

Welcome to Samaritas Nation!

Samaritas is a Michigan-based human service organization that connects people with families and communities, empowers them to live their fullest life possible, and creates a ripple effect of transformation. The reference to the Good Samaritan in our name reflects our mission, values, and the faith-based services we provide every day.

Shape Futures. Build Independence. Lead with Purpose.

Independent Living Plus (ILP) is a transformative program designed to support youth aging out of foster care as they transition to independent adulthood. As the Team Lead, Independent Living Plus, you’ll play a critical role in leading staff, mentoring youth, and helping young people build the skills and confidence needed for lifelong success.

This is a unique opportunity to combine leadership, case management, and hands-on support in a setting where your work directly changes lives.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Team Coordination

• Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to ILP home staff
• Ensure services are delivered in alignment with agency, contractual, and regulatory standards
• Foster a positive, structured, and supportive team environment

Case Management & Youth Support

• Provide direct case management for up to 6 youth in the ILP home
• Support youth in areas such as mental health, education, employment, housing, and life skills
• Coordinate intake, assess referrals, and facilitate placement of new youth
• Attend court hearings and provide professional updates and testimony

Program Operations & Home Management

• Oversee the upkeep and daily operations of the ILP home
• Ensure a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained living environment
• Guide staff in maintaining structure, accountability, and supportive programming

Collaboration & Advocacy

• Partner with community providers, agencies, and referral sources
• Coordinate services and supports tailored to each youth’s goals
• Assist youth with successful transitions to independent living arrangements
• Advocate for improved services and outcomes for youth in care

Documentation & Quality Assurance

• Complete and review treatment plans, case notes, and reports
• Audit case records regularly to ensure compliance and high-quality documentation
• Track and report data on client progress and program outcomes

What You Bring

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related human services field
• State of Michigan licensure preferred

Experience

• At least 1 year of experience in child welfare or related field preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Passion for working with youth transitioning out of foster care
• Strong case management and relationship-building skills
• Ability to navigate complex systems and coordinate resources
• Sound judgment and crisis response capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and leadership abilities
• Cultural competency and a trauma-informed approach

Additional Requirements

• Participation in a 24-hour on-call rotation as needed
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record
• Reliable transportation and proof of automobile insurance

Why Join Samaritas?

• Make a direct, lasting impact in the lives of youth
• Lead a program focused on empowerment and independence
• Be part of a mission-driven, supportive organization
• Grow your leadership skills and career in human services

Ready to Empower the Next Generation?

Help young people build the skills, confidence, and independence they need for the future.

#teens #childwelfare #fostercare #socialwork #humanservices