WFS Wildfire Relief Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Closes: 8/30/26 - Spokane, WA - Full-time/HourlyWage: $30.00 p/hEmployment Benefits: Please apply early, as this job posting is subject to removal before the deadline if sufficient number of qualified applications are received. Thank you.Summary:The Wildfire Relief Specialist provides comprehensive case management services to individuals & families impacted by wildfires & related disasters. This position serves as a primary point of contact for disaster survivors, conducting needs assessments, developing individualized recovery plans, connecting participants to community resources, & facilitating the distribution of state-funded financial assistance in accordance with grant requirements & program guidelines. They will utilize trauma-informed, participant-centered approaches to help individuals navigate recovery while promoting dignity, resilience, & self-sufficiency. This role requires extensive collaboration with community partners, government agencies, Goodwill departments & programs, & other service providers to ensure coordinated & effective support for wildfire-impacted households. Must have valid driver's license, clean driving record, personal auto insurance, & pass background & driver record check.Education &/or Experience:Bachelor 's degree from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience &/or training; or equivalent combination of education & experience.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Case Management & Participant SupportConduct assessments to identify the immediate, short-term, & long-term needs of those impacted.Develop individualized recovery plans that address housing, employment, financial stability, transportation, health care, mental health, & other recovery-related needs.Maintain ongoing contact with participants to monitor progress, adjust service plans, & provide supportive guidance.Utilize motivational interviewing techniques to foster participant engagement, self-determination, & goal achievement.Apply trauma-informed care principles in all participant interactions to promote trust, empowerment, & emotional safety.Provide crisis intervention, emotional support, & referrals while maintaining professional boundaries.Maintain accurate, timely, & confidential participant records in compliance with agency, grant, & regulatory requirements.Financial Assistance AdministrationEvaluate participant eligibility for disaster relief funding according to state & grant guidelines.Collect, review, & verify required documentation for assistance determinations.Prepare & process financial assistance requests accurately & within established timelines.Ensure all assistance decisions are documented & compliant with grant regulations & auditing requirements.Monitor expenditures & maintain detailed records to support fiscal accountability & program reporting.Community Collaboration & Resource NavigationServe as a knowledgeable resource for community services.Develop & maintain strong working relationships with community organizations, government agencies, emergency management partners, tribal organizations, & faith-based providers.Collaborate with Goodwill programs & departments to connect participants to workforce development, housing stabilization, financial education, & other supportive services.Coordinate service delivery to minimize duplication & maximize available community resources.Participate in community coalitions, case conferencing meetings, & recovery coordination efforts.Outreach & Program SupportConduct outreach activities to identify & engage disaster survivors who may be eligible for services.Represent Goodwill professionally.Assist with program data collection, reporting, & grant performance tracking.Contribute to continuous quality improvement efforts & program development initiatives.Maintain awareness of changing disaster recovery resources, funding opportunities, & community needs.Other duties as assigned.