Caseworker - General Assistance - Juneau - Open Until Filled

POSITION DESCRIPTION
Caseworker

INFORMATION
Department: General Assistance Type of Position: Non-Exempt
Location of Work: Juneau, AK
Salary Grade(s): 8 ($27.51+ DOE)
Hours of Work: M-F, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Employment Category: Regular, Full-Time

PURPOSE
The Caseworker will be responsible for providing case management services for clients/families that have applied for financial services and agreed to work toward improving their own economic independence. The Caseworker will use a wraparound service approach to provide professional level services including, but not limited to: conducting interviews to determine need, assisting client with the application process, collecting data and documents to establish program eligibility, working with the client to develop a strengths-based Individual Self-Sufficiency Plan, and monitoring client progress regularly with the end goal of reducing or eliminating the barriers to the client’s achievement of economic independence.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Read, understand, and interpret State, Federal, and Tribal codes and procedural manuals
• Understand and interpret performance standards, guidelines, and outcome requirements of each financial assistance program available through the Tribe
• Notify supervisor if a case has been assigned that is directly related to the caseworker
• Maintain a standard caseload
• Conduct intensive interviews to determine eligibility for client benefits and analyze written and oral information
• Explain all program options and services available for the client
• Ensure clients right to privacy and confidentiality when information may need to be released to others
• Assist clients with completing all paperwork, and acquiring attachment documents via a release of information
• Obtain and review necessary data, documentation, and verification for each program of assistance
• Document all contacts with clients and service providers in applicable electronic case file daily
• Work with clients to identify strengths and develop an Individual Self-Sufficiency Plan
• Provide intensive case management services, including, but not limited to: initiate referrals, complete follow-up communications with other service providers, complete home visits, and transport clients and families in company vehicles

• Process all internal paperwork for clients; request checks, make travel arrangements, write referral letters, etc.
• Work within timeframes and deadlines dictated by program requirements
• Regularly conduct audits of client files to correct reporting or data entry errors and make adjustments if necessary
• Investigate complaints from clients and analyze data for validity; detect discrepancies and seek clarification of data through telephone inquiries, correspondence, and interviews
• Submit reports and written communication in a timely fashion
• Network both internally with co-workers, and externally with other service providers and employers to assist clients to successfully reach identified goals
• Work with employment agencies, and local employers to secure employment for clients
• Identify and attend required training
• Attend meetings, training, and other business as requested
• Other duties as assigned

NECESSARY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
• Knowledge of Public Assistance Laws, Rules, Regulations, Service Programs, and Employment Programs
• Ability to read and interpret procedures to make conclusions and decisions
• Knowledge of other community programs providing financial and health services
• Mastery of basic office procedures and practices
• Excellent computer skills including all Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques
• Excellent writing skills
• Ability to evaluate and recommend changes in eligibility and Individual Self-Sufficiency Plans
• Above average case management skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Excellent prioritization and time-management skills
• Ability to practice tact, courtesy, and discretion
• Experience working with Native American and Alaska Native clientele and a working understanding of cultural values and needs

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education, experience, skills)
Caseworker I
• Associate’s Degree in related field
• 2 years related experience

Substitution
• High School Diploma
• 4 years of experience as a caseworker, or closely related position

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (education, experience, skills)
• Valid Driver’s License
UNUSUAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OR RESTRICTIONS
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