Independent Living Specialist (Maricopa County)

Would you like to help build a stronger Arizona for children and families? Would you like to make a direct impact, right in your own community? We have a great opportunity for you to join our team as an Independent Living Specialist (Navigator) in Maricopa County! As an Independent Living Specialist/Navigator with Arizona's Children Association, you will have the opportunity to assist young adults in the transition from foster care to an independent, sustainable living environment. This will include assisting in connecting them to personal and community resources, supporting in the enhancement of informal support networks, and assisting in life skills development.

This person will support youth in and around Maricopa County. There will be driving required for this role, both with and without youth in vehicle - mileage reimbursement provided.

Pay range: $19.00 / hour - $23.25 / hour. This position is hourly/non-exempt.

Why You'll Love Working for Us:

At Arizona's Children Association, our employees are our most valuable asset; and as such we offer a wide range of benefits to aid your health and wellness including:

- Eligibility for Medical, Dental, and Vision plans on the first of the month following 30 days of employment
- Employee Assistance Program
- Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and 8 paid holidays
- 403B Retirement Savings Plan

Arizona's Children Association Benefit Guide 2025

Find your passion. Fulfill your purpose. Join Team AzCA!

What You'll Do:

• Maintain contact with young adults, collateral persons and agencies to assist young adults to develop and maintain life skills and accomplish goals established, per contractual service requirements.
• Collaborate with young adult client, under direction of supervisor, to develop goals and service plan activities using a strength based, trauma informed approach.
• Effectively and collaboratively monitor progress and provide resources and tools as needed.
• Participate in group training and educational meetings as required and as time and resources permit.
• Provide individual support and services focusing on life skills development, including tutoring, transportation, individual education, and activities.
• Develop and facilitate trainings and workshops, providing skill development options focusing on issues common to adolescents preparing for independent living. This includes exploration and skill building in self-esteem, goal setting, healthy relations, broad vocational and career issues, safety, and emotional preparation for adulthood.
• If applicable, may assist young adults to develop and maintain a contract with Department of Child Safety when eligible.
• Assist young adults in developing and accessing scholarships and grants for ongoing education and training.
• Maintain accurate client records, completing case notes and supplemental documentation in accordance with established timelines, program and contract standards.
• Complete and provide required monthly, quarterly and annual data reports in accordance with established program and contract standards.

Minimum Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree with 2 years of related experience OR a Master's degree with less than 2 years of related experience
• Related experience includes experience in child welfare or behavioral health fields working with young people ages 14-21 who are involved in systems of care (fostercare, juvenile justice, runaway and home homeless youth programs)
• Relevant Degree include: Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling and Child Development. Other degrees may be considered with at least 20 Credit hours from an accredited university in the previously referenced degree specialty.

Minimum Qualification & Requirements:

• Must be 21 years of age (licensing requirement).
• Possess a valid Arizona driver's license and be insurable under the agency's automobile policy.
• Must be able to provide own transportation to and from clients' homes and/or other relevant organizations/agencies
• Must be able to provide DPS fingerprint clearance.
• Must be able to meet training and agency compliance requirements for the position. An individual may qualify for this position if the individual is able to "perform safely" the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations

At Arizona's Children Association we are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that not only promotes, but values and celebrates diversity. Our goal is to create an inclusive workplace and culture to better serve our children, families and community.

Just like the uniqueness of the families we serve, we strive to be diverse in:

race, color, ethnicity, national origin, culture, language, gender, age, sexual orientation/preference, gender identity and expression, disability and/or diagnosis, marital status, religion, status, or any other protected status.

AzCA does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.