Transition Navigator

The New Foster Care’s (TNFC) is a 501c (3) non‑profit organization based out of Oakland County launched in 2016. TNFC is a faith‑based organization committed to making transformative change within the Michigan foster care system and to creating measurable, meaningful impact on the lives of youth and emerging adults with lived experience in foster care.

We serve young people ages 14–29 through the Bridge Program, our comprehensive transitional support model that centers the young person as the driver of their own life plan. Services support progress across five life transition domains:
Employment & Career, Living Situation, Educational Opportunity, Community Life Functioning, and Personal Effectiveness & Wellbeing.

Our work is grounded in relationship‑based, trauma‑informed, and strengths‑focused practice, delivered through an integrated multidisciplinary team.

The Transition Navigator (TN) partners with youth and emerging adults, along with their families and support systems, to build on strengths, foster resilience, and promote successful transitions into adulthood. Using a person‑centered and trauma‑informed approach, the TN provides individualized guidance and in‑vivo coaching across the five transition domains to support participants in achieving their personal, educational, and career goals.

The TN delivers a range of rehabilitative and case management services, including prevention planning, skill development, vocational and educational support, employment readiness, and connection to community resources. This role focuses on empowering participants to develop independence, enhance life skills, and overcome barriers related to mental health and life transitions. Working collaboratively with internal teams and community partners, the TN helps ensure coordinated, culturally responsive, and strengths‑based care.

The TN works under the guidance and supervision of the Director of Transition Services and/or Transition Services Supervisors.

• Build trusting, strengths‑based relationships that promote hope, engagement, and self‑determination with youth, emerging adults, and families.
• Conduct strengths and needs assessments and co‑create individualized Future Plans aligned with transition goals.
• Provide in‑vivo coaching and real‑world skill building to strengthen daily living, social, emotional, and problem‑solving skills.
• Coordinate care and advocate across mental health, education, vocational, housing, medical, legal, and community service systems.
• Collaborate effectively with caregivers, providers, schools, courts, and community partners to ensure integrated support.

• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation, service records, and outcome data within electronic systems.
• Utilize technology efficiently and uphold confidentiality and ethical standards.
• Manage multiple responsibilities with strong organization and attention to detail in a fast‑paced environment.

• Identify strengths and barriers, screen for risk behaviors, and apply TIP methods to promote stability and resilience.
• Provide trauma‑informed, culturally responsive services that support emotional regulation, decision‑making, and healthy coping.
• Respond calmly and effectively in high‑stress or crisis situations to ensure participant safety and well‑being.

• Demonstrate knowledge of human development, behavioral health, trauma‑informed care, and strengths‑based practices.
• Participate actively in team meetings, service planning, and ongoing training and professional development.
• Communicate professionally, contribute to a respectful team culture, and adapt positively to change.
• Maintain flexibility to work occasional non‑traditional hours and travel throughout the Tri‑County area with reliable transportation.

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related health and human services field.
• Current State of Michigan Limited or Full Social Work License (LLBSW or LBSW) preferred.
• Experience supporting youth and/or emerging adults with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs.
• Experience working with young people involved in foster care, juvenile justice, or other child‑and family‑serving systems.
• Relevant internship, practicum, or field placement experience in health or human services settings.

• Maintain a valid, unrestricted driver’s license, current vehicle registration, and automobile insurance, along with reliable personal transportation suitable for safely transporting program participants.
• Consistently demonstrate professionalism and adhere to the NASW Code of Ethics and TNFC’s Code of Ethics and Conduct in all interactions and responsibilities.
• Support team and program needs by completing additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.