Client Advocate

Join Our Team at Calhoun County Government! At Calhoun County, you’ll find more than just a job, you’ll find purpose. Our employees make a meaningful impact every day by serving our community. Whether you’re supporting essential services, improving local systems, or helping residents thrive, your work contributes to something bigger. We’re proud to foster a collaborative, supportive workplace where people are valued for their ideas and dedication to public service.

If you’re looking for a career that makes a difference, we invite you to explore opportunities with Calhoun County Government.

Under the supervision of the Client Advocate Coordinator, the Client Advocate will work collaboratively with Assistant Public Defenders to assist clients in areas of housing, substance use, mental health, employment, and other services as part of holistic, client-centered representation. The Client Advocate will also provide support for Assistant Public Defenders by advocating for treatment, reduced sentences, and alternative sentencing to incarceration in the form of mitigation reports and sentencing memorandums.

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or other human service fields. Possession of a bachelor’s degree with relevant experience will also be considered.
• Knowledge of the family and criminal system preferred.
• A strong ability to assess needs with the diverse populations involved in the legal system in a culturally sensitive and respectful manner.
• Willingness to access clients in a correctional facility.
• Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team.
• Ability to work compassionately and respectfully with clients in crisis.
• Computer skills necessary to effectively utilize word processing programs, databases, spreadsheets, and presentation software applications.
• Must possess a valid Michigan operator’s license.
• Excellent written and oral commination skills,
• Effective organizational skills to handle multiple projects and attention to detail.
• Professionalism and the ability to appropriately handle confidential information and sensitive situations.

• None

Hybrid Work Classification:
Hybrid Eligible.

Flexibility Classification:
Flexible Schedule Eligible.

• Normal office environment with occasional discomfort due to heat, dust, and noise.
• Extended workdays (beyond 8 hours/day or Saturday/Sunday) are occasionally required.
• Availability to handle work problems, attend meetings, handle emergencies/crisis situations is occasionally required.
• Controlled environment in the Calhoun County Jail.
• Courtroom setting.
• Up to 20% of the time may include travel and time in other locations.

Wage Range: $25.85 - $31.89 USD

Calhoun County Government offers benefits designed to support your wellbeing at work and beyond. Our employees enjoy competitive pay, health and retirement plans, generous time off, and opportunities for professional growth. Benefits for 40 hours/week positions are highlighted below:

• Paid Time Off: 6.47 hours per pay period (hourly) or 4.2 weeks annually (salaried)
• Holidays: Enjoy 14 paid holidays per year
• Flexibility
  :
  Hybrid and flexible scheduling for eligible positions
• Retirement: 401(k) with up to 7% County match
• Near-Site Clinic: Convenient preventative and primary care with on-site medications
• Education: Up to $3,000 annually in tuition reimbursement

Learn more about our benefits houncountymi.gov/.