Income Maintenance Caseworker - PT

• Performs all of the following functions; (intake, processing and review) in one of the following income maintenance programs; (Food Stamps, Aid to Families with Dependent Children, Medicaid or County Special Assistance).
• Works with clients to gather information through the interview process for the purpose of determining applicant/client eligibility as well as to inform the client of their rights and obligations as prescribed under program policies.
• Obtains all pertinent data concerning the clients' family composition; and financial, employment and health status. 
• Processes clients' applications through the verification of information obtained during intake. 
• Reviews clients' case on a periodic basis, in order to re-verify the clients' eligibility for continued participation in the program and determining eligibility for other necessary programs as may be dictated by the client's current circumstances. 
• Determines clients' initial and/or continued eligibility for any given program, depending on the function or combination of functions performed. 
• Stays up to date with program policies and processing functions in order to correct any errors detected during second party reviews.
• Refers to the Food Stamps, AFDC, Work First and Energy Manuals in performing all functions required to complete the eligibility determination process, and utilizes agency procedural guidelines to accomplish work.
• Communicates with medical providers, pharmacies, and other outside agencies to obtain client resources. 
• Provides information to clients on program requirements based upon the information provided in the Food Stamp, AFDC, Energy and Work First.
• Prepares and creates reports; and keeps track of multiple records.
• Keeps clients up to date on their case by sending letters and notifications.
• Operates a multi-system phone line; placing, returning, and transferring calls.
• Issue correspondence via fax and through referrals.
• Processes payments and works with multiple vendors.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Excellent computer skills are essential. Good mathematical reasoning and computational skills.  Ability to communicate with clients, applicants, and the public to obtain data, to explain and interpret rules, policies, and procedures.  Ability to understand the needs and problems of clients/applicants. Ability to learn the program areas of assignment and all agency programs and services which could affect the client/applicant. Preference may be given to qualified applicants bilingual in English and Spanish.

The position requires the ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based tasks, conducting interviews, and reviewing documentation. Frequent use of hands and fingers is necessary for typing, handling paperwork, and operating office equipment such as telephones, fax machines, and printers. The role may occasionally involve lifting and carrying files or office supplies weighing up to 20 pounds. Clear verbal and written communication is essential, as the position involves regular interaction with clients and staff. The ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and maintain focus in a busy environment is critical. 

Caseworker II:  Minimum Training and Experience Requirements listed below in the Caseworker I description plus a minimum of one year of experience as an Income Maintenance Caseworker in a Department of Social Services   

Minimum Education and Experience: Caseworker I:  Graduation from an accredited associate degree program in Human Services Technology, Social Services Associate, Paralegal Technology, Business Administration, Secretarial Science, or a closely related curriculum; OR graduation from high school and two years paraprofessional, clerical, or other public contact experience which included negotiating, interviewing, explaining information, gathering and compiling data, analysis of data and/or performance of mathematical or legal tasks with at least one year of such experience being in an income maintenance program; OR graduation from high school and three years of experience as previously described if no experience in an income maintenance program; OR an equivalent combination of  education and experience. Preference may be given to qualified applicants bilingual in English and Spanish.

(Also accepting Caseworker I at entry level salary for work against status if no previous IMC experience in a Department of Social Services. The minimum salary for a Caseworker I is - Caseworker I $ 34,417.50)

• Valid North Carolina Driver's License
• Successful completion of SBI background check with required fingerprinting by Sheriff Office. (Instructions issued by HR at pre-boarding)
• Successful completion of Transylvania County standard background check. (Instructions issued by HR at pre-boarding)
• Successful completion of drug screening. (Instructions issued by HR at pre-boarding)

Note:  This position requires access to and use of confidential information.  The individual filling this position shall sign a confidentiality statement as an employee of Transylvania County Department of Social Services.