Lead Case Manager

Southwest Key Programs - Houston, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Houston, TX

Social Assistance

About the position

The Lead Case Manager oversees the daily operations of the case management department at Southwest Key Programs, ensuring the timely submission of essential documentation and compliance with guidelines. This role requires flexibility, organization, and the ability to work extended hours, including weekends and on-call duties. The Lead Case Manager is responsible for managing case files, supervising staff, and coordinating services for youth in the program.

Responsibilities

• Assign cases immediately upon youth's arrival or the next business day.
• Ensure that youth are properly enrolled in the program's internal intake system (ETO, NSLP).
• Perform weekly audits of 10% of the program's active case files and maintain appropriate documentation for compliance.
• Develop corrective action plans or disciplinary memos for case management staff performance issues in collaboration with the Program Director.
• Review all assessments and documentation for accuracy before submission to stakeholders.
• Serve as the main point of contact for approving placements and information requests in coordination with the Program Director.
• Ensure proper closure of all case files upon youth leaving the shelter.
• Prepare and submit weekly case log reports to program staff and stakeholders as approved by the Program Director.
• Maintain a daily updated list of the status for all cases to ensure adequate progress.
• Ensure sufficient supplemental clothing and personal items are available for youth.
• Adhere to budgetary limits and plan for annual expenses in cooperation with the Program Director.
• Complete travel arrangements for program staff transporting youth for reunification or transfer purposes.
• Submit Case Management Significant Incident Reports (SIRs) within 24 hours of notification and additional reports as required.
• Carry a small caseload for high profile or complex cases.
• Conduct initial intake interviews of youth and gather necessary information.
• Conduct interviews of family members or sponsors to verify information received from minors.
• Determine options available for youth within 48-72 hours and proceed with documentation for reunification.
• Coordinate with local pro bono attorneys for timely provision of legal presentations to youth.
• Ensure timely completion of assessments and service plans in accordance with requirements.
• Document all actions taken and contacts with youth and stakeholders as required.
• Submit completed reunification packets for timely release of youth to designated representatives.
• Provide weekly updates to youth and telephonic updates to family members/sponsors.
• Facilitate incoming calls to youth with family members and caregivers.
• Facilitate attorney-client contact as requested by youth.
• Conduct weekly Treatment Team meetings with representatives from all departments.
• Drive youth to facilitate program services as needed.
• Attend all required trainings and facilitate trainings as needed.
• Attend departmental and program meetings to ensure up-to-date information is received and changes are implemented.
• May serve as the Administrator In Charge in the absence of the Program Director or Assistant Program Director.
• Create and attend trainings that enhance professional growth in case management or supervision.
• Assist with submission of monthly and quarterly reports to funders.
• Provide information for monitoring activities as needed.
• Assist in the evacuation of youth as needed due to emergencies.
• Conduct monthly supervision meetings with supervisees and maintain records of outcomes.
• Complete Annual Performance Reviews of all case management staff.
• Attend training that enhances professional growth in relevant areas.
• Travel as needed for trainings, conferences, or to transport youth.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and hazard-free work area.
• Ensure proper supervision of youth at all times.
• React productively to change and handle other essential tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Counseling, or related field with 2-3 years of experience working with adolescents, or a Master's Degree with 1-2 years of experience in youth services.
• 1 year of full-time paid supervisory experience.
• Computer literate with working knowledge of Microsoft Windows (Word, Excel).
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to facilitate program services.
• Cleared Tuberculosis test results.
• Cleared background check from appropriate entity.
• Bilingual proficiency.
• Cleared drug test results (for Texas programs only).
• Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of hire.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in crisis intervention or management.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations regarding youth services.
• Experience in a residential facility setting.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401k plan
• Paid time off
• Flexible scheduling
• Professional development opportunities