Human Services Assistant I

Job Title

Administrative Support Staff

Job Description

This position provides a variety of services while working in one or more program areas performing effective administrative and technical duties in support of agency clients. HSA will operate various computer systems to conduct searches for initial applications, renewals, and re-certifications; deliver information and assist clients with completing applications and paperwork; attend to customers and answer incoming calls; support Benefit Programs staff in managing their caseloads; prepare and mail correspondences; provide information and referrals and verify information as required for other community resources; update client information in online systems; present oral accounts and/or written documentation regarding customers, verification letters, and other circumstances; create and label case files and complete appropriate forms; and assist in preparing periodic, special, and other reports. Follow up with referrals to ancillary agencies; research and purge case records; gather and input a variety of financial and statistical data, generate reports, and upload case documentation; monitor computer systems and inform staff when information needs to be updated; research closed records for requested information.

All other duties assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Working knowledge of: administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, office forms and applications, and other office procedures and terminology; and mathematics sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, divide, compute rate, ratio and percent; and to draw and interpret graphs. Some knowledge of basic human service needs and state computer programs. Skill in operating various automated equipment, which includes fax/copiers, calculators, multi-line phones; and ability to use word-processing, worksheets, and graphics and file maintenance programs. Demonstrated ability to: work with clients, co-workers, professionals, and the public; read and comprehend simple documents; write simple correspondence; take minutes at various meetings; present information in one-on-one and small group situations; follow written and oral instructions; perform basic mathematics; work with clients, professionals, co-workers and the public; plan, organize, and prioritize daily tasks; use correct spelling and basic grammar; and display common courtesy and be a team player. Assist other units and departments with tasks; schedule and reschedule appointments; provide translations in Spanish and English. Must have experience working with the public providing customer service. Bilingual –English/Spanish reading/speaking skills are required.

Education and Experience- High school diploma with work experience in customer service or general clerical work involving contact with the public OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Special Instructions To Applicant

This is a 40 hour per week full-time position with benefits. The position works primarily within the Benefit Programs Unit. Applications/resumes for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, e-mailed, faxed or hand delivered applications/resumes will not be accepted. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application/resume.

The position requires discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information and occasionally involves community-based work outside of standard business hours.

Preferred Qualifications: In addition to the minimum qualifications, preference will be given to candidates with a high school diploma supplemented by related experience in social services or a related field, OR graduation from an accredited two-year college or university with a degree. Experience using State-related applications such as VaCMS, SPIDeR, and EPPIC is highly desirable, as is knowledge of the local Department of Social Services. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (reading, writing, and speaking) is also required. An equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.

Special Requirements: Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results from the required checks and screenings.

Valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver's license is required, in addition to a driving record that meets agency standards. Must be willing to participate in community shelter operations during disasters and/or emergencies.

Work hours are Monday and Friday, 8:00AM – 4:00PM with 1-hour for lunch.