ECONOMIC SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Economic Support Specialist The Washington County Human Services Department, located in West Bend, offers this full‑time Economic Support Specialist position within the Economic Support Division. Responsibilities include determining initial and continuing eligibility for and provision of financial assistance benefits to agency and consortium clients. The position offers up to 50% remote schedule based on supervisor approval after demonstrating proficiency. Job Summary The Economic Support Specialist works under the general direction of the Economic Support Supervisor, performing duties related to eligibility determination and case management for public assistance programs. The specialist conducts client interviews in the five‑county Moraine Lakes Consortium, processes applications and renewals in a regional call center, reviews and analyzes client documentation, and maintains accurate case files. Responsibilities Conduct interviews with clients in the Moraine Lakes Consortium to collect financial and non‑financial information for eligibility determinations for programs such as Foodshare, Badger Care, Child Care, Caretaker Supplement, and Medicaid. Answer calls in a five‑county regional call center, completing applications and renewals, responding to case‑specific questions, identifying and resolving case errors, and making referrals to community agencies. Analyze and interpret client statements and documentation—including legal documents, income tax forms, real estate contracts, immigration status evidence, trust documents, financial records, and medical records—and enter data into the Cares Worker Web system. Determine initial and continued eligibility and benefit levels within stipulated time limits, applying program rules and ensuring timely written notification for grant or denial of benefits. Establish and maintain electronic and paper case files, including written worker narrations that accurately reflect benefit issuances and error corrections. Research, prepare written summaries, and represent the agency at administrative hearings related to denial, termination, or reduction of economic assistance. Analyze applications and certifications identified as error‑prone during front‑end verification, including computing overpayments, initiating fraud investigations, and testifying in court. Develop and maintain effective working and public relations with county employees, consortium partners, state agencies, community representatives, contract staff, clients, families, and the public. Attend staff meetings and participate as scheduled. Perform additional duties as required or assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or GED required. Either two years of technical or college‑level education and one year of full‑time work experience in human services, customer service, financial record keeping, or interviewing; OR five years of full‑time work experience in those areas. One year of computer experience in data entry, research, or information retrieval preferred. Working knowledge of State and Federal rules and regulations applicable to Economic Support programs. Ability to interpret program policies and make independent decisions in accordance with regulations. Strong analytical, critical‑thinking, and problem‑solving skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff and the public. Ability to manage a high call‑center volume, frequent interruptions, and time pressures. Physical and sensory demands include reading and hearing; cognitive demands include concentration, conceptualization, and memorization. Benefits Health, dental, and life insurance. Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability coverage. Medical and Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts. Wisconsin Retirement System and Wisconsin Deferred Compensation (IRS 457). Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO). Fitness center access and tuition reimbursement. Equal Opportunity Employment Washington County is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr