Human Services Caseworker

Human Services Caseworker

The New Hanover County Department of Social Services is seeking experienced, detail-oriented, and customer friendly professionals to aid citizens in need of economic assistance. Caseworkers are responsible for interviewing clients and collateral contacts using various complex automated systems, explaining the requirements and benefits of all Medicaid programs, Food and Nutrition Services, Child Care subsidy, Work First Family Assistance, Long Term Care and the Federal Marketplace to determine eligibility and/or re-eligibility for the various programs. Duties include researching and evaluating resources; verifying information; processing applications; compiling and entering data into appropriate computer database, including the NC Fast system; explaining and recommending programs; referring clients to other appropriate agencies or community programs and documenting findings and the status of the case. Caseworkers may be assigned to work in any of the following program areas:

Zone 1 Opportunities include Food and Nutrition Services, Family and Children's Medicaid, Adult Medicaid, Work First - Family Assistance, Daycare Services, and the Customer Experience Team (CET), which assists in multiple programs.

Zone 3 Opportunities are assigned to the Long Term Care Unit.

Health 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, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on 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 assignments during emergency situations.

Salary Information: The hiring range for Zone 1 opportunities begins at $44,152. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations. Those selected for hire in the Long Term Care unit are Zone 3 Caseworkers. The hiring range for these positions begins at $46,841, due to the complexity of this program area. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations. Bilingual candidates are eligible for a differential (5%) when performing Spanish language interpretation during the course of work.

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!

Required Education and Experience: Knowledge, skills, education, and experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the functions of the role and successfully perform the essential duties including using a computer for researching, searching, and entering data, normally associated with a High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and two (2) years of related experience providing customer service in a setting with a high level of public contact.

What will make your application stand out:

• Previous experience as an Income Maintenance, Economic Services, or Universal Caseworker in a department of Social Services.
• Previous experience interviewing clients or families
• Excellent computer skills sufficient to use NC FAST, NC's online case management system, as well as various other search engines and software programs
• Ability to utilize complex automated systems and have knowledge of policies and procedures related to eligibility, determination, and re-determination

Priority consideration will be given to candidates who have completed the Social Services Case Worker Workforce Readiness program through Cape Fear Community College.

All incoming Human Services Caseworkers must successfully obtain NC Fast Core Functions and assigned Program Area Level 1 Certifications within their first 90 days of employment with the county.

Some positions may require a valid driver's license and good driving record.

Opportunity to Telework on a Partial Basis: Certain casework positions hold the opportunity for full or partial telework. Employees must complete an in office 6-month introductory period before being considered for full or partial telework. When a full or partial telework position becomes available, time spent with department and proven track record will be taken into consideration to determine who is granted full or partial telework. As with all telework opportunities, certain meetings or trainings will require the employee to come into the office. The ideal candidate for a telework position is a self-starter with strong written and verbal skills and solid proficiency in using modern office technology to perform work duties.

This job is posted continuously with a priority date of Friday, May 10th. 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. If you have had an interview and would like to inquire about the status of your interview, please contact the hiring manager that you interviewed with. In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2(b), if this position requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the county must require the applicant to undergo a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI for all offers of employment made after October 1, 2025. Additional information on how to complete this required check will be provided to the selected candidate after an offer of employment is accepted.

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.