Family Support Specialist

Family Support Specialist

Are you a motivated individual with a Bachelor's Degree in a Human Services field looking to make a positive difference in your community? Look no further! New Hanover County Social Services is hiring a Family Support Specialist to join the Health and Human Services department.

This position performs paraprofessional work assisting residents experiencing unexpected emergencies and/or hardship situations by determining eligibility to receive financial assistance and connecting the client with community resources to avoid future crises.

Job Responsibilities:

• Interviewing clients to understand and assess the situation and its need for services.
• Utilizing agency tools to determine eligibility for assistance and connect the client to community resources.
• Coordinating needed support services and makes referrals to community resources.
• Educating clients on community and service resources, serving as an advocate to represent the client's interests.
• Maintaining case documentation and reports; entering data accurately into computer systems to include the NC Fast system.
• Participating in continuing education activities by attending workshops and seminars.
• Gathering and reviewing household income, financial resources, and residency data resulting in authorizing amounts of assistance for programs.
• Reviewing declaration forms and other application forms; verifies this information through telephone calls and correspondence with employers and other similar contacts.
• Explaining program requirements and options, informs client of rights and responsibilities as prescribed by program policies.
• Responding to inquiries from clients and citizens regarding benefits, application process, and/or program eligibility.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, equity, innovation, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. Supported by the work of our Office of Diversity and Equity, New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, and supports equitable and inclusive policies and growth opportunities. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change in the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living in New Hanover County, NC: New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.

Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday. On a rotating schedule, certain Tuesdays will be a 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM schedule. Must be available to report for emergency work assignment during emergency situations.

Compensation: The target hiring range for this position is $51,111 to $69,000. The full salary range for an incumbent hired into this position is $51,111 to $86,889. Starting salary will be determined based on qualifications, relevant experience, internal equity, and budget. In limited situations, candidates with exceptional qualifications may be considered for a starting salary above the target hiring range, but not to exceed the maximum of the salary range.

Candidates validated as bilingual by the County's Language Access Coordinator are eligible for a pay differential when performing bilingual duties during scheduled work hours, in accordance with County policy.

New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

Next Steps: After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for.

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.