Substance Use Services Case Manager

About the role

The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The position is a salaried, exempt position. The annual salary range is $49,000 - $55,000. The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County offers a strong benefits package that includes: medical, dental, and vision insurance with very low deductibles; 403(b) retirement matching; flexible spending account, generous paid time off, disability & life insurance and a flexible schedule. This position is represented by the Delonis Workers United bargaining unit.

Responsibilities

• Aid in the operation of the Delonis Center.
• Manage a caseload of active cases.
• Transport clients in a personal vehicle, as needed.
• Meet with clients in the community, as needed.
• Perform real-time data entry in HMIS to ensure records are accurate and up to date.
• Support other case managers, as needed.
• Work weekends and/or evenings during winter months, and holidays, as assigned.
• Perform other assignments as directed by supervisor.
• Utilize community resources appropriately to meet client needs.

Case Manager Responsibilities

• Meet with clients promptly upon assignment and collaboratively prepare action steps to achieve goals.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments of the client’s needs, strengths, barriers, and substance use concerns.
• Develop individualized housing and recovery plans, rooted in the Housing First philosophy, and assist clients in securing housing.
• Provide immediate stabilization and crisis support, including access to basic needs and harm reduction resources.
• Connect clients ready for substance use treatment or services for co-occurring disorders to Washtenaw County CMH Access for screening purposes and referral to providers as appropriate.
• Guide clients through SOAR benefit applications, disability income processes, and documentation support.
• Provide education on substance use disorder, harm reduction, prevention, treatment, recovery, and relapse prevention.
• Facilitate or co-facilitate regular group recovery meetings (e.g., SMART Recovery).
• Support reintegration into the community through job training, benefits enrollment, and peer mentorship opportunities.
• Maintain weekly follow-up with clients, assess progress, adjust plans as needed, and record outcomes in HMIS.
• Attend and participate in Case Review meetings and team conferences.
• Together with the client, prepare and work on the necessary action steps for client and case manager to achieve client goals.
• Set up regular follow-up meetings with client, based on client’s needs for intensity.
• Assist client in housing search, based upon a “Housing First” philosophy.
• Aid clients in applying for disability income, and other supportive benefits, as needed.
• Follow up, recommend exit, or reevaluate plan as needed.

Qualifications

• BSW preferred, or bachelor’s degree in human services with equivalent professional or lived experience. Please note the SAWC will consider alternative, comparable experience to a degree.
• Certification in treatment and recovery services (e.g., CADC, CAADC, CPRC) or willingness to start a related Development Plan.
• Extensive knowledge of substance use and substance use disorders, with a strong understanding of evidence-based treatment modalities, harm reduction strategies, and recovery-oriented systems of care.
• Minimum of 1 year of case management or related experience or combination of field practicum and experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Commitment to diversity, poverty issues, and economic justice.
• Cultural competence, including experience with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance-use, serious mental illness, or diverse gender/sexual identities.
• Ability to multitask and manage crises effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Exchange, HMIS, and online research.
• Reliable transportation for apartment inspections, landlord engagement, and occasional client transport.
• Assertive yet welcoming demeanor; able to set boundaries without intimidation.
• Good judgment, maturity, and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Reliable and willing to work required shifts, including holidays and weekends.

Benefits

The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County offers a strong benefits package that includes: medical, dental, and vision insurance with very low deductibles; 403(b) retirement matching; flexible spending account, generous paid time off, disability & life insurance and a flexible schedule.