Child Support Specialist

Child Support Specialist

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don't just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $27.14 to $36.25. Full salary is $27.14 to $45.35. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in paralegal, human services, or related field. OR Associate's degree from an accredited college in paralegal, human services, or related field and one (1) year of paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions. OR Combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions. Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under direct supervision, partners with County Attorney staff to establish and enforce child support orders. Interviews clients, gathers information, and makes referrals to collaborative agencies. Educates clients on child support processes using various communication methods. Drafts legal documents and provides testimony in District Court hearings, court referrals, and judgment actions. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace. This is a hybrid position that offers remote and in-person work at our office location. Employees are eligible for hybrid work once they have passed the training program.

Examples of Work

• Interviews clients to gather information to establish paternity, locate an absent parent, establish a court order, or to enforce an existing court order for support and spousal maintenance.
• Completes interstate actions to establish and enforce child support in other states.
• Inputs and maintains case data in state computer system.
• Initiates and participates in legal actions to establish paternity, establish/modify child support orders, and enforce court orders for support.
• Negotiates out-of-court child support related settlements for final approval by the court.
• Refers clients to other collaborative agencies.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of case management and review techniques.
• Knowledge of child support law.
• Knowledge of the legal process, rules of evidence, and court procedures.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Knowledge of data privacy laws and regulations.
• Skill in the use of motivational interviewing techniques.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Skill in the use of basic business math.
• Ability to compile evidence, analyze facts, and make recommendations.
• Ability to remain objective.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to interpret court documents.
• Ability to process a large amount of work in an efficient manner.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: In compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act, the following represents the Physical and Environmental Demands:

Office environment - Sitting - Standing, walking, reaching - Repetitive hand movements, typing/data entry - Talking, hearing - Operate vehicle - Sedentary (exert up to 10 pounds of force) - Light effort (exert up to 20 pounds of force)