Forensic Care Coordinator (Competency Restoration Programs)

Service Area: Dane, Sauk, Columbia, Jefferson & Walworth Counties

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS)

Compensation: $31.00 per hour

Make a Difference at the Intersection of Mental Health, Recovery, and Justice

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan (LSS) is seeking a compassionate and motivated Forensic Care Coordinator to support adults involved in the criminal justice system who are working toward competency restoration. This role serves individuals throughout Dane, Sauk, and Columbia Counties, helping them access treatment, navigate complex systems, and build successful paths toward recovery and community integration.

If you are passionate about mental health, criminal justice, and helping individuals achieve meaningful change, this opportunity offers the chance to make a lasting impact every day.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting Pay: $31.00 per hour

In addition to competitive compensation, LSS offers:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Mileage reimbursement
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Supportive, mission-driven culture
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement

About the Role

The Forensic Care Coordinator provides comprehensive, person-centered case management services for individuals enrolled in Wisconsin's:

• Outpatient Competency Restoration Program (OCRP)
• Jail-Based Competency Restoration Program (JBCR)

You will work directly with clients in community settings and county jails, collaborating with treatment providers, court systems, correctional facilities, family members, and natural supports to coordinate services and support competency restoration.

This position receives ongoing training in Motivational Interviewing, including monthly coaching and quarterly fidelity reviews, along with other evidence-based practices designed to improve client outcomes.

What You'll Do

• Complete assessments of client strengths, needs, and functional abilities
• Develop and implement individualized, person-centered service plans
• Coordinate mental health, substance use, housing, medical, and community services
• Meet with clients in community and jail settings throughout the service area
• Collaborate with courts, correctional facilities, treatment providers, institutions, and natural supports
• Facilitate person-centered team meetings
• Providing legal education to competency clients
• Utilize trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches, including Motivational Interviewing
• Maintain timely and accurate electronic documentation
• Participate in clinical supervision, training, and professional development
• Testify in legal proceedings as required
• Advocate for client needs while promoting independence and recovery

Why This Position Matters

This role plays a critical part in helping individuals restore competency, engage in treatment, reduce barriers, and successfully transition within their communities. You will serve as a bridge between behavioral health, criminal justice, and community support systems while helping clients work toward meaningful life goals.

Qualifications

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or a related field, including:

• Social Work
• Psychology
• Criminal Justice
• Counseling
• Community Mental Health
• Substance Use Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling
• Recreational Therapy
• Vocational Counseling
• Other qualifying human services degrees

Preferred Experience

• Experience in case management, behavioral health, substance use treatment, criminal justice, or community-based services
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system 
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and person-centered practices
• Understanding of mental health and substance use disorders
• Ability to collaborate across multiple systems and stakeholders
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills

Requirements

• Valid Wisconsin Driver's License
• Reliable transportation
• Ability to meet LSS driving and insurance requirements
• Successful completion of required background and regulatory checks

Travel Requirements

• Daily travel throughout Dane, Sauk, and Columbia Counties
• Occasional overnight travel may be required

Join LSS

At LSS, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to thrive. Join a team dedicated to restoring hope, supporting recovery, and creating stronger communities throughout Wisconsin.

Apply today to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals navigating mental health challenges and the justice system.

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer.