Eligibility And Employment Specialist I/Ii

This recruitment is for Level I and Level II.

The salary rage for level I is $1519.20 -$2036.00 biweekly ($18.99 -$25.45 per hour). The salary range for level II is $1,596.80 - $2,139.20 biweekly ($19.93 - $26.74 per hour).

Note: A training and experience evaluation may be utilized to determine an applicant's ranking among qualified candidates. Based upon information provided in this application including responses to supplemental questions, an applicant's education, training and experience (full-time equivalent) may be evaluated. Applicants should provide thoughtful and thorough responses to supplemental questions as they play an important role in this recruitment process. All qualifying work experience that is described or included in responses to supplemental questions MUST also be included and detailed in the "Work Experience" section of this application. "See Resume" is not an acceptable response for any supplemental question.

FLSA: Non-Exempt

DEFINITION

Under direct or general supervision, determines the eligibility of applicants and recipients of Department Employment and Social Services (DESS) public assistance programs through interactive interviews and fact gathering; may provide guidance and work plans to resolve employment barriers; ensures adherence to DESS public assistance policies and programs; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direct (Eligibility and Employment Specialist I) or general (Eligibility and Employment Specialist II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Eligibility and Employment Specialist I: This is the entry-level classification in the Eligibility and Employment Specialist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and performs eligibility determination for assigned cases. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and complex; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Eligibility and Employment Specialist II: This is the journey-level classification in the Eligibility and Employment Specialist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the Senior Eligibility and Employment Specialist in that the latter performs the more complex work assigned to the series and serves in a lead capacity over assigned specialist staff.

Positions in the Eligibility and Employment Specialist class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the II-level may be filled by advancement from the I-level; progression to the II-level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the II-level.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

• Performs case management functions; organizes files; prepares and mails correspondence; reviews case information and status; updates database and ensures accuracy and completion of application, declaration forms, and computer input; generates and processes a variety of legal documents and other related materials; compiles and analyzes statistics; works as part of an integrated case management team.
• Explains social services rules and regulations to clients and apprises them of their rights, responsibilities, and eligibility for public assistance programs and services; assists parties in the completion of forms; searches files and other documents for required and relevant information.
• Adheres to the standards of the Privacy Act of 1974, {U.S.C. § 552A} as amended; maintains and enforces all aspects of confidentiality of client information.
• Organizes caseload ensuring case records and documents are processed and updated within specific time limits established by regulation and local policy.
• Reviews and analyzes client data and documentation to determine initial and continuing eligibility and confirms provision of appropriate services under local, state, and federal criteria; screens information for accuracy; requests required documents; verifies and validates data and documentation; investigates claims and documents actions.
• Performs related duties as assigned.
• Inputs client application information and client statements into statewide automated data system; reads and interprets computer-generated reports.
• Supports the relationship between Butte County and the constituent population by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and other employees.
• Resolves discrepancies by securing documentation, records, and confirmation from other entities; evaluates potential for fraudulent situations and reports to supervisor as required.
• Approves and provides supportive services and ancillary payments.
• Interviews clients with complex barriers to employment and self-sufficiency to determine client eligibility for public assistance programs and services; may manage employment and social services plans for clients.
• Completes registration/contractual process for enrollment into appropriate eligibility services; assesses client compliance to rules and regulations and applies sanctions as required or directed.
• Assists clients in accessing community services; refers clients to supportive services; counsels clients, may initiate and monitor job search activities, and assists in the identification and removal of barriers to self-sufficiency and employment.

Knowledge of:

• Methods and techniques of communicating with diverse populations.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
• Basic social service needs of individuals and families; and methods and techniques to assist and support clients in working toward self-sufficiency and mutually agreed upon goals.
• Methods, practices, and procedures of case management.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• Principles and techniques of effective interviewing and information gathering.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, and ordinances relevant to assigned areas of responsibility including those governing eligibility and determination for diverse public assistance programs.

Ability To:

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Work as part of a team to ensure clients receive optimal treatment and care.
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Promote County services within the community.
• Demonstrate effective customer service skills.
• Provide program services to clients with diverse needs in a sensitive manner.
• Maintain accurate records and files.
• Interact with people of diverse social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Educate and motivate client population served.
• Learn about local community resources and community services programs.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Prepare clear and concise notes, records, correspondence, reports, and other written materials.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

Education and Experience:

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade; and

Certifications and Licenses:

• Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
• Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information; ability to lift, carry, push and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
• Office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS UTILIZED

Disaster Service Worker

All Butte County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.