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Job Description
Client Service Aid 3.5 3.5 out of 5 stars Waukegan, IL 60085 $17.50 an hour - Full-time PADS Lake County 12 reviews $17.50 an hour - Full-time The Client Service Aide (CSA) at PADS Lake County is a professional foundation role designed for individuals seeking to establish a high-impact career in social work, human services, sociology, or non-profit leadership. As a key member of our frontline team, the CSA provides direct client care and plays a critical role in maintaining safe, supportive, and trauma-informed program environments. This position offers an immersive, hands-on opportunity to gain the essential field experience required for entry into advanced practitioner roles or graduate-level studies. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the CSA supports daily facility operations through a lens of Trauma-Informed Care and Harm Reduction. This role is ideal for those looking to master the complexities of milieu management, crisis de-escalation, and professional client advocacy within a social service framework. Through professional and respectful engagement, you will help bridge the gap between crisis and housing stability, ensuring that PADS Lake County facilities remain safe, equitable, and client-centered. This primarily operational role provides a unique opportunity to develop a robust professional skill set in Crisis Intervention, logistical coordination, and resource management. CSAs gain direct experience utilizing the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and implementing Housing First principles in real-world scenarios. For candidates pursuing a long-term career in the social service sector, this position provides the high-intensity field immersion and professional boundaries training necessary to excel in complex, community-based environments.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provide staff and client support within designated agency programs. Deliver care that is safe, timely, effective, equitable, and client-centered. Foster an environment of respectful customer service for clients, donors, volunteers, and partner agencies. Demonstrate understanding and implementation of Housing First, Harm Reduction, and Trauma-Informed Care principles. Maintain effective communication with staff members and supervisors.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Client Services Communicate client needs to program staff and management in a timely and professional manner. Provide transportation for clients as needed using agency or personal vehicles in accordance with policy. Monitor client behavior and manage conflicts using crisis management and harm reduction techniques. Provide feedback and apply consequences as necessary, escalating issues appropriately. Serve as the on-site staff representative when working at hotel or off-site shelter locations. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment. Distribute food, personal protective equipment, laundry supplies, cleaning supplies, and other necessary items to clients. Monitor clients in reception areas, family rooms, day rooms, case management waiting areas, and outdoor spaces. Monitor overnight sites and hotels as assigned and de-escalate conflicts as needed. Respond promptly and professionally to disruptive behavior or emergency situations. General Responsibilities Generate daily reports and submit follow-up documentation related to client issues. Complete accurate and timely data entry in HMIS/Service Point and other required systems. Perform general maintenance, sanitation, cleaning, and organization of PADS facilities. Monitor client and staff compliance with safety protocols, including infection control practices. Ensure professionalism, confidentiality, and appropriate boundaries at all times. Communicate and enforce agency expectations clearly, consistently, and calmly. Acquire and utilize knowledge of HMIS/Service Point, Microsoft Outlook, and standard word processing software. Participate in staff meetings, in-service trainings, and seminars. Ensure adherence to professional standards outlined by relevant governmental bodies and organizations, including but not limited to HIPAA and confidentiality regulations. Comply with all PADS Lake County policies as outlined in the personnel handbook. Perform other duties as assigned to support programs and clients. Work effectively in a demanding environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously as needed.
REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience Minimum High School Diploma or GED required. One (1) or more years of experience in a related human services field preferred. Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness strongly preferred. Advanced education may be substituted for experience. Skills & Competencies Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Strong time management and organizational abilities. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Detail-oriented with strong follow-through. Demonstrated professionalism and ability to maintain confidentiality and boundaries. Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently. Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office Suite. Additional Requirements Valid Illinois driver's license with a clean driving record. Ability to pass applicable background checks. Ability to commute to Waukegan, IL and assigned Lake County locations.
HOURS & WORKING CONDITIONS
Scheduling flexibility required, including evenings, weekends, overnights, and holidays. Work is performed in shelter, hotel, and community-based environments. Regular interaction with individuals experiencing crisis, mental health challenges, or substance use issues. Physically active role requiring standing, walking, and facility oversight.
BENEFITS 401
(k) Health insurance Health Savings Account (HSA) Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Paid time off Flexible scheduling (role dependent)
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT PADS
Lake County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.
Pay:
$17.50 per hour
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Mileage reimbursement Opportunities for advancement Paid sick time Paid time off Paid training Vision insurance Application Question(s): Does the listed salary meet your requirements? How does this role at PADS Lake County align with your current career trajectory or academic background in human services, social work, or a related field?
Shift availability:
Day Shift (Preferred) Night Shift (Preferred) Overnight Shift (Preferred) Ability to
