Shelter Care Assistant Program Director

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Job Code: 2025-YS-004

Location:

Milwaukee

Department:
Shelter Care

FT/PT Status:
Full Time

We're looking for committed professionals with a social work or human services background to deliver client-centered, trauma-informed care. You’ll support individuals, partner with justice-involved individuals, and lead staff and youth at our two state-licensed facilities.

• Supervise and mentor shelter staff, ensuring coverage and compliance with state standards.
• Act as a positive role model, engaging with youth in a therapeutic, trauma-informed way.
• Oversee daily operations, safety procedures, and incident reporting.
• Collaborate with county partners, families, schools, and community providers.
• Provide shift coverage and hands‑on support when needed.

• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Experience in youth services or social services preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced setting.
• Flexibility to work some evenings, weekends, and respond to after‑hours needs.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Psychology, or related field (required).
• Minimum 2–3 years supervisory experience (3+ preferred).
• 2–3 years working in a 24/7 residential facility (4–5 preferred).
• At least 3 years working directly with youth (5+ preferred).
• Skills:
  • Strong leadership and decision‑making in complex situations.
  • Proficiency with databases, Excel, Microsoft Teams, and other tracking/reporting tools.
  • Ability to guide and support staff in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Trauma‑informed, person‑centered approach to youth care.
• Other Requirements:
  • Valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, and insurance (per agency policy).
  • Must pass reference checks, background check, drug test, and driver’s license verification.
  • Certification in Vistelar Safety or similar training preferred.

• Make a real impact in the lives of youth.
• Lead a supportive and mission‑driven team.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

Duties require possible activity while monitoring or interacting with youth in the program. Staff may be required to use physical intervention in extremely rare situations if there is immediate physical harm posed to clients or staff. Ability to lift 30 pounds. Driving an agency vehicle is required.

WCS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.