Shelter Care Assistant Program Director
Wisconsin Community Services (WCS) – Milwaukee, WI
Join a Mission-Driven Team Making a Daily Impact in the Lives of Others
Social Services Professional | Wisconsin Community Services (WCS)
Are you a change-maker at heart? Ready to use your passion for social justice, mental health, and community empowerment to impact lives every single day?
At Wisconsin Community Services (WCS), we don’t just offer services—we build hope. We provide a continuum of care and support to individuals navigating adversity, including substance use challenges, mental health needs, criminal justice involvement, and employment barriers. Through compassion, advocacy, and connection, we empower people to break cycles and create change—for themselves, their families, and their communities.
About the Role
We're looking for committed professionals with a social work or human services background to join our team in delivering client-centered, trauma-informed care. Whether you’re supporting individuals through court-ordered or voluntary programs, your work will help restore dignity, nurture resilience, and create pathways for lasting success.
As part of the WCS team, you’ll partner with justice-involved individuals who are often navigating unmet needs or systemic inequalities. You’ll walk alongside people in their journey to achieve stability, build relationships, and reach their self-defined goals.
WCS is seeking a Shelter Care Assistant Program Director to lead staff and support youth at our two state-licensed facilities. This on-site role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys mentoring others, and is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for youth.
What You’ll Do
Supervise and mentor shelter staff, ensuring coverage and compliance with state standards Act as a positive role model, engaging with youth in a therapeutic, trauma-informed way Oversee daily operations, safety procedures, and incident reporting Collaborate with county partners, families, schools, and community providers Step in when needed to provide shift coverage and hands-on support
What We’re Looking For
Strong leadership and organizational skills Experience in youth services or social services preferred Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting Flexibility to work some evenings/weekends and respond to after-hours needs
Education/Training Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Psychology, or related field (required). Minimum 2–3 years supervisory experience (3+ preferred). 2–3 years working in a 24/7 residential facility (4–5 preferred). At least 3 years working directly with youth (5+ preferred).
Skills: Strong leadership and decision-making in complex situations. Proficiency with databases, Excel, Microsoft Teams, and other tracking/reporting tools. Ability to guide and support staff in a fast-paced environment. Trauma-informed, person-centered approach to youth care. Other Requirements: Valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, and insurance (per agency policy). Must pass reference checks, background check, drug test, and driver’s license verification. Certification in Vistelar Safety or similar training preferred. pm21
WCS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Why Join WCS?
Make a real impact in the lives of youth Lead a supportive and mission-driven team Opportunities for professional growth and development Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
Physical Demands: Duties require possible activity while monitoring or interacting with youth in the program. Staff may be required to use physical intervention in extremely rare situations if there is immediate physical harm posed to clients or staff. Ability to lift 30 pounds. Driving an agency vehicle is required.
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