Work Life Consultant (Case Manager) - Lake County in Waukegan, Illinois at Aspire Chicago

Empower Independence. Build Community. Change Lives.

About Aspire

Since 1960, Aspire has been creating boundless opportunities for people with disabilities. We believe in working together to pursue greater possibilities, foster meaningful connections, and build communities where everyone belongs. Every member of our team plays a role in advancing this mission!

The Role

As a Work Life Consultant (Case Manager), you will partner closely with individuals receiving services, their families, support networks, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure each person’s goals, strengths, and aspirations are honored through thoughtful, person-centered planning and support. You will serve as a key advocate, coordinator, communicator, and mentor — helping ensure services are delivered with excellence, dignity, compassion, and accountability.

**PLEASE NOTE: This role will serve our Lake County community.

What You’ll Do

Facilitate Person-Centered Planning

• Develop and implement individualized service strategies and outcomes aligned with each person’s Personal Plan.
• Monitor progress, goal tracking, and documentation to ensure quality and compliance.
• Coach and support Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in implementing individualized plans effectively.
• Visit and engage with individuals during Academy hours to monitor progress and provide direct support when needed.
• Promote a shared understanding of each person’s goals and vision among team members.

Build Strong Relationships & Coordinate Services

• Serve as the primary communication liaison for families, natural supports, and stakeholders.
• Maintain regular communication with families and support teams to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Coordinate meetings and collaborate with providers to optimize outcomes and customer experience.
• Connect individuals to additional resources and services as requested or recommended.

Advocate for Individuals

• Champion dignity, independence, and choice for every person supported.
• Ensure health, safety, wellness, human rights, and waiver compliance.
• Respond calmly and effectively to crisis situations within the Academy program.
• Foster environments where individuals can explore opportunities, relationships, and personal growth.

Ensure Quality, Compliance & Training

• Maintain accurate, organized participant records in compliance with DHS and accreditation standards.
• Complete documentation and reporting in a timely and accurate manner.
• Participate in committees, events, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Provide training and coaching to team members on goals, interventions, relationship-building, and support strategies.
• Stay current on best practices and trends in the developmental disabilities field.
• Maintain required certifications and complete all assigned trainings.

Who You Are

• Compassionate, empathetic, and committed to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• An effective communicator with strong oral and written communication skills, including accurate documentation and report writing.
• Able to maintain confidentiality while demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and accountability.
• Skilled at building trusting relationships with individuals served, families, interdisciplinary teams, providers, and community partners.
• Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain accurate records in a fast-paced environment.
• An independent problem-solver who can think critically, navigate ambiguity, and make sound decisions.
• Adaptable, resilient, and able to remain calm and supportive during challenging or crisis situations.
• Committed to person-centered planning, advocacy, dignity, inclusion, and helping individuals achieve meaningful life goals.
• Comfortable coaching and supporting Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to ensure high-quality, individualized services.
• Dedicated to continuous learning, quality improvement, and delivering exceptional service.

• Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field.
• Minimum of one (1) year experience supporting individuals with disabilities.
• Illinois QIDP Certification or eligibility
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record
• Basic computer proficiency and working knowledge of standard software applications

Preferred Skills & Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build trusting relationships with families, individuals, and team members.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Professionalism, empathy, patience, and emotional resilience.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in challenging situations.
• Commitment to confidentiality, dignity, and person-centered values.

Why Aspire?

• Make a direct, visible impact on people's lives every day.
• Advocate for independence, dignity, and person-centered support.
• Collaborate with families, providers, and community partners to create meaningful outcomes.
• Join a mission-driven organization focused on growth, innovation, and inclusion.
• Help individuals build confidence, strengthen relationships, and achieve meaningful, self-directed lives.

Full-Time Benefits (for employees regularly scheduled to work 37.5+ hours per week)

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Options
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time)
• 13 Paid Holidays
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're passionate about empowering individuals, advocating for person-centered support, and creating meaningful opportunities, we'd love to hear from you. Join a mission-driven team where your compassion, collaboration, and commitment can make a lasting difference every day!

Apply today and help build pathways to employment that truly change lives!