Job Description
Job Description
Description : BEFORE YOU APPLY
Location & Eligibility Requirements
- This position is based in Lake County, Illinois (not Cook County).
- Candidates must reside within 20 miles of Waukegan, IL, to ensure timely response and in-person collaboration.
- On-site work is required; this is not a remote role.
- Bilingual Spanish and English fluency is required . Applicants without demonstrated proficiency will not be considered.
- Grant-Funded Position Notice. Employment is contingent upon continued grant funding.
- Transportation : Must have a reliable vehicle with active auto insurance.
ABOUT US
For more than 46 years, A Safe Place has provided safety, advocacy, and healing for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. We are a trusted refuge in Lake County, empowering families to rebuild their lives through shelter, counseling, and holistic support services.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Position Title : Emergency Residential Shelter Family Advocate - 1st Shift (Sunday - Thursday)
The Emergency Residential Shelter Family Advocate will provide immediate support and advocacy to survivors in our emergency shelter. You’ll ensure their safety, empower their independence, and foster a compassionate and secure environment.
Key Responsibilities :
Develop safety plans and manage cases to provide comprehensive client support.Offer crisis counseling, advocacy, and connections to community resources.Assist with legal referrals, DHS benefits, and education on domestic violence laws.Manage shelter operations, engage in community building, and handle donations.Conduct client evaluations and maintain accurate records.Mentor volunteers, build local agency relationships, and provide post-shelter support.Maintain timely, accurate case notes and reports in accordance with agency and grant requirements.Uphold confidentiality and trauma-informed care practices in all interactions.Provide education on domestic-violence laws, victim rights, and available resources to promote awareness and safety.Actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, and team initiatives to support collaboration and professional growth.Perform additional program or organizational duties as assigned to advance agency goals and service delivery.ABOUT YOU
You are compassionate, organized, and mission-driven. You understand that healing begins with safety and empowerment.
What You Bring :
Extensive experience in crisis intervention, case management, or advocacy.Strong understanding of domestic violence, trauma-informed care, and case management best practices.Deep empathy and professionalism when supporting survivors through transition.Excellent communication, documentation, and boundary-setting skills.Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills with clients, colleagues, and community partners.Sound judgment and emotional resilience in fast-paced, crisis-oriented environments.Cultural awareness, sensitivity, and allyship for diverse survivor experiences, including LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities.Exceptional organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.Commitment to accountability, continuous learning, and A Safe Place’s mission of empowerment, dignity, equity, and fostering a violence-free society.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with electronic case management or medical record systems (a plus).Requirements :
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field (and / or equivalent work experience).At least 2–3 years of experience in case management, advocacy, or human services (internship / practicum accepted).Bilingual in Spanish and English fluency preferredCompletion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence Training (required; may be obtained upon hire).EMPLOYMENT DETAILS
Schedule : Full-time, Sunday through Thursday, 7 : 00 AM to 3 : 00 PM.Reports To : Associate Director of HousingTravel : Required within Lake County, ILDirect Service Commitment : Approximately 70% of work hours are dedicated to direct client service (e.g., case management, advocacy, and client engagement).Additional Requirement : Commitment to 2–4-hour shifts for holiday shelter coverage, as needed.Physical Requirements : Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds, navigating stairs, and moving between program facilities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.COMPENSATION & BENEFITS :
Pay Range : $20 - $25 hourly; based on grant funding, skills, experience, and expertise.Pay Schedule : Bi-weekly (26 pay periods annually).Benefits : Comprehensive package including health, dental, and vision insurance; FSA; 401(k); paid time off; and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).GRANT-FUNDED POSITION NOTICE
This position is funded through a specific grant, and continuation is dependent on the renewal or extension of that funding source. Employment beyond the grant period is not guaranteed and may be contingent upon additional funding or organizational needs.
EMPLOYMENT AT-WILL STATEMENT
Employment with A Safe Place is at-will, meaning that either you or the organization may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice or cause, in accordance with applicable law.
COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION
A Safe Place is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive work environment.
