Self-Sufficiency Specialist I (Orange)
Dept of Social Services - Local (765-01)
Self-Sufficiency Specialist I represents the entry level in the Self-Sufficiency Specialist occupational group for employees working under close supervision while being trained in determining eligibility for a variety of social services government assistance programs and assessing employability of clients to aid in their effort to achieve self-sufficiency. Upon recommendation by the supervisor, approval by the director, and successful completion of the training program, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Self-Sufficiency Specialist II and becomes eligible for a salary increase if/as indicated by the local department’s compensation plan. Employees are dedicated wholly to Employment Services or to a combination of Benefits and Employment Services. This level is distinguished from the Self-Sufficiency Specialist II by the latter’s performing all the assigned eligibility and employment service duties independently and making judgments following agency practices and procedures and mandated federal, state, or local laws and policies.
- Explains the employment services program.
- Makes assessments of customer needs and develops employment plans, utilizing job search, work experience, education and training.
- Establishes and monitors self-sufficiency goals through information and assessment of customer background.
- Monitors case reports/records in accordance with regulations.
- Explains the child care program and makes assessments of customer needs.
- Interviews persons for assistance, obtains necessary information.
- Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance.
- Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion.
- Determines eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods.
- Evaluates employability status of clients and explores potential sources of income.
- Explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
- Refers clients to service worker as the result of overall assessment of situation.
- Prepares reports and maintains client records.
- Communicate with Supervisor for guidance as necessary.
This position will be cross trained in other self-sufficiency and/or benefits programs. Will serve as a backup for Child Care and TANF worker. May perform all typical tasks of an Eligibility Worker, which includes approving SNAP and Medicaid programs.