Economic Support Specialist

Wood County is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V). The Wood County Human Services Department has a passion for helping the members of our community. As an employer, we strive to provide a work environment where diversity and differing opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged, continuous learning and improvement are fostered, teamwork and open/honest communication are encouraged, and meeting customer needs through quality services is a shared goal across all departments. WHAT WE OFFER Health Insurance - low premiums and deductibles with strong coverage Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) – a well-funded public pension plan 457 deferred compensation plan Vacation and Sick Time – accrue from day one 10 Paid Holidays Flexible Spending Account for eligible childcare and medical expenses Life Insurance Short- and Long-Term Disability Wellness Incentive Plan Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program CURRENT OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN OUR TEAM The Wood County Human Services Department has a full-time (.97 FTE) opening for an Economic Support Specialist in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. The Economic Support Specialist provides information about and determines eligibility for categorical aids available through public assistance. Interprets and applies federal and state laws and regulations, policy and procedures to individual case circumstances to meet the needs of low-income families. Most interactions occur primarily by phone. RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Provide information about and determine eligibility for categorical aids available through public assistance. Interpret and apply federal and state laws and regulations, policy and procedures to meet the needs of low-income families. Interview and assess clients\' needs for public assistance, primarily by phone. Receive phone calls from the public regarding a variety of public assistance questions, assess client needs, and make appropriate referrals to community resources. Treat customers and co-workers with respect and sensitivity. Listen effectively; ensure mutual understanding of customer intent and concerns through ongoing feedback and clarification. Write and speak clearly and concisely to communicate program requirements. Create opportunities to clarify and expand understanding. Participate in special assignments, work groups, and committees to improve quality and accuracy of service delivery. Process changes to determine eligibility for public assistance programs, including strict enforcement of eligibility requirements, investigative interviewing, budget computation, case documentation, completion of forms, and computer usage. Communicate in a courteous and informative manner to maintain good public relations. Know and practice the county’s safety policies; perform all tasks in a safe and prescribed manner. Familiarize with and exemplify the Wood County Core Values and serve with courtesy and respect in accordance with the Code of Conduct. OTHER JOB DUTIES Prepare and present information regarding program services to clients, the general public, community groups, County and municipal officials, and other interested parties. Represent the department in legal proceedings and fair hearings and provide necessary testimony. Identify any over issuance of benefits and refer to the appropriate investigation or recovery process. Perform any other duties as assigned. EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, QUALIFICATIONS High School diploma, plus either a two-year post-secondary degree in business or human services; or two years of college (60 credits) in business or human services; or current Economic Support Specialist who has completed the State mandatory economic support training. Word processing skills are essential, with typing skills of 35 wpm strongly preferred. Knowledge of human behavior, motivation, crisis intervention, family and group dynamics, money management, interviewing and assessment skills, organizational and interpersonal skills are necessary. Excellent oral, interviewing, and written communication skills. Basic daily living skills are needed, and the ability to understand and follow oral and written directions. Reading, writing, and basic arithmetic skills are required. Basic office equipment used: copy machine, computer terminal and printer, FAX machine, calculator, and telephone. #J-18808-Ljbffr