A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

The Juvenile Justice Clinic (JJC) at the University of Michigan Law School is seeking a dedicated and experienced social worker  to join our team as part of a two-year, grant-funded pilot project. This innovative initiative is designed to improve legal and social outcomes for youth charged with felony offenses.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team of legal professionals and contribute meaningfully to a mission-driven program supporting some of Michigan's most vulnerable youth.

Duration: Two-year, grant-funded position. Please note that employment in this role is contingent on the continuation of grant funding and may be terminated early if grant funding is reduced or discontinued.

Work Expectations: Please note that this position is at a reduced effort of 75% (30 hours per week with flexible scheduling). 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Direct Client Support and Case Collaboration

• Provide social work consultation to JJC attorneys, law students, and clients.
• Address non-legal issues affecting case outcomes, such as family instability, mental health, education, housing, or food insecurity.
• Make referrals to therapeutic, educational, and other support services.
• Offer hands-on assistance to help stabilize clients' circumstances.

2. Statewide Advocacy and Support

• Deliver training and consultations to juvenile defense attorneys across Michigan.
• Improve access to community resources and expert evaluations (e.g., competency, neuropsychological, sexual behavior assessments).
• Support attorneys in identifying and securing appropriate services for youth in the justice system.

• Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution
• Active license to practice social work in the State of Michigan

• 3-5 years of professional social work experience, preferably in legal or youth-serving settings
• Experience working with adolescents and interdisciplinary teams
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience developing and conducting professional trainings
• Familiarity with Michigan-based social service networks, housing providers, and related support systems
• Passion for justice reform and commitment to indigent defense

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

About University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A great university is made so by its faculty and staff, and Michigan is recognized as one of the best universities to work for in the country. The Michigan culture is known for engaging faculty and staff in all facets of the university to create a workplace that is vibrant and stimulating.For two consecutive years, the Chronicle of Higher Education has placed U-M in its "Great Colleges to Work For" survey. In particular, the university earns high marks for strong relations between faculty and administrators, a collaborative system of governance, strong pay and benefits, and a healthy work/life balance.

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