Utilization Management Specialist

Mission Statement The Children’s Network of Hillsborough is committed to working with the community to protect children and preserve families. General Purpose of Job To act as a liaison between the Case Management Organizations (CMOs), the Department of Children & Families (DCF) and specialty and/or community providers to facilitate identification of service needs and provision of appropriate and timely services to children and families with the goal of moving cases toward permanency. The UM specialist takes a primary role in ensuring the effective management of allocated resources. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Prepare initial authorization of paid, purchased, and contracted and Medicaid funded services funded by the Lead Agency ensuring that authorizations are generated quickly to facilitate initiation of services to children and families. Work with the Point of Contact (POC) to serve as the central point of contact for case managers in referring children for Comprehensive Behavioral Assessments (CBAs), other behavioral assessments as needed and mental health services. Process and track the progress of Comprehensive Behavioral Health Assessment (CBHA) referrals. Receive completed assessments and process service authorizations once approved. Cultivate effective communications and working relationships with a network of service providers. Maintain accurate client records of service requests, authorizations, and payments processed. Evaluate and process flex fund and community development requests. Track process of referrals for Suitability Assessments (QE), adherence to time frames, including level of care; admit dates, changes in level of care, name of therapeutic providers. Process invoices from providers for payments. Work together as a team with co-workers to streamline processes and maintain unit efficiency and quality of work. Monitor email on a daily basis and circulate pertinent information to unit staff members. Other duties may be assigned as special projects may be requested. Working Hours Children’s Network of Hillsborough’s standard business hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This position is an in-office based position that averages 40 hours per week. Work hours may vary outside of these standard hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed to meet operational demands. All hours worked will be compensated in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and agency policies, including applicable overtime and other compensation requirements. Travel Travel in and outside of Circuit 13 may be required. Training All employees are required to complete fifteen (15) hours of training annually, which may be completed online or in a classroom setting. Employees who hold a credential or license relevant to their position must ensure that all training and continuing education requirements are met to maintain their credential or licensure. Supervisory Responsibilities This position does not have supervisory responsibilities. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year accredited college or university; Florida Child Welfare Certification (Case Management or Investigations) is preferred. Other Qualifications Minimum of one (1) year of experience in Child Welfare, social services, behavioral health care, or related field. Excellent organizational and problem‑solving skills. Self‑motivated with the ability to manage various work assignments simultaneously. Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with others. Knowledge of local community services is desired. Skills and Abilities Exceptional leadership and communication skills, fostering collaboration across all organizational levels. Strong aptitude for analytical thinking and data‑driven decision‑making, excelling at solving complex problems and implementing effective solutions. Proficient in project management, handling multifaceted initiatives, ensuring deadlines are met and budgets are maintained. Highly adaptable to fast‑paced and dynamic environments, prioritizing tasks efficiently while leveraging operational software and tools to enhance productivity. Strategic planning expertise and a commitment to fostering teamwork to drive organizational success. Pre‑employment Requirements Valid driver’s license required, with proof of insurance. Driver’s license check is a requirement. Criminal background screening (fingerprinting) (Local Law Enforcement and FBI/FDLE). Drug screening is a requirement. Children’s Network participates in E‑Verify. Other Requirements Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, legal documents, and/or governmental regulations. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, public groups, and/or boards of directors. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees. Mathematical Skills Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs. Reasoning Ability Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to be proactive, as well as handle problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations. Physical Demands The physical demands of this position are generally moderate. The role may require extended periods of sitting, standing, and using a computer. Occasional lifting of office supplies, files, or materials up to 25 pounds may be required. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Work Environment This is an in‑office‑based position focused on administrative work, where the noise level may be moderate. This role may involve occasional travel among agency locations, extended periods of computer work, and frequent interactions across multiple departments. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. ADA Children’s Network of Hillsborough, LLC will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. EEO Children’s Network of Hillsborough, LLC does not discriminate based on race, national origin, gender, religion, veteran status, or disability in employment, in provision of services, or in access to programs. Drug‑Free Workplace Children’s Network of Hillsborough, LLC is a Drug‑Free Workplace. Employee Notice Remember: If you are currently an employee of Children’s Network of Hillsborough Florida, LLC, or one of our Case Management Organizations, it is necessary that you notify your current Supervisor prior to applying. #J-18808-Ljbffr Children's Network of Hillsborough