Parent Coach / Family Support Social Worker

Wellspring Lutheran Services – Traverse City | Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Benzie, Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee counties | Full-Time - Hybrid | Salary $42,000 | Accepting applications until August 21, 2026.

About the role

You'll work directly with families whose children are in out-of-home care with a goal of reunification. Through coaching, education, encouragement, and support, you'll help parents strengthen their skills, build healthy relationships, and move toward positive outcomes for their families. This role focuses on helping parents recognize their strengths, develop new tools, and build confidence in their ability to guide and nurture their children.

Responsibilities

• Build meaningful relationships with parents and caregivers while helping them navigate challenges and work toward their goals.
• Provide education, coaching, and support to strengthen communication, develop effective parenting strategies, and build healthier family relationships.
• Meet families where they are—both literally and figuratively—helping them identify strengths, overcome barriers, and develop practical skills for long-term success.
• Use the Nurturing Parenting curriculum to guide conversations and learning opportunities while tailoring your approach to each family's unique circumstances and needs.
• Connect families with community resources and services that provide additional support and stability.
• Partner with families to identify safety concerns, reduce risks, and create plans that support the well-being of both children and caregivers.
• Support family reunification efforts and celebrate progress.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related human services field.
• Minimum of one year of experience working in human services preferred.
• Willingness to complete Nurturing Parenting Program training and implement the curriculum with fidelity.
• Knowledge of child welfare, community resources, and family-centered interventions preferred.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and documentation skills.
• Commitment to strength-based, family-focused services.

Skills

• Empathy, respect, and a strength-based mindset.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with community partners and service providers.
• Strong communication skills to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Employee Assistance Program (SupportLinc).
• Mileage reimbursement for daily travel.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A collaborative, mission-driven team environment.

Pay

$42,000

Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours per week.
• Primarily day/afternoon hours with evening and occasional weekend availability as needed for families.
• On-call availability for assigned families to provide support and guidance when needed.
• Community and home-based work with daily travel throughout the service area.