Caseworker, Eligibility Review Officer

Regional Municipality of Peel • Brampton, ON

9h • CA$74,170 - CA$88,535 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Human Services department works to provide supports to improve the quality of life for the Peel community. This includes income and social supports, affordable housing and early years and child care supports. Human Services works as part of the broader social services sector; collaborating with community partners, building capacity and providing funding to respond to the needs of people in our community.
The Caseworker, Eligibility Review responds to complaints regarding client eligibility for benefits under the Ontario Works Act by conducting in depth eligibility reviews, where appropriate, recommending ineligibility for benefits and potential police involvement in the laying of criminal charges for fraud.

Requirements

• Graduation from a post-secondary school with a degree/diploma in the human services field with at least three years of job-related experience in a human services environment.
• Extensive knowledge of Ontario Works legislation, legacy programs for social assistance, supplementary programs and MFIPPA.
• Sound knowledge of computer applications such as SDMT, MS Office and local applications.
• Excellent communication skills (oral & written) for a variety of audiences at all levels including witnesses and court officials.
• Demonstrated knowledge of investigative skills.
• Well developed negotiation skills.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent knowledge of community resources.
• Strong analytical skills.
• A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
• A clear Vulnerable Sector Check.

Nice To Haves

• Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are currently in the bargaining unit.

Responsibilities

• Assesses all complaints regarding eligibility for Ontario Works and legacy assistance programs in accordance with relevant policy, programs and legislation.
• Conducts investigations through service level agreements for other departments and divisions in accordance with their legislation.
• Conducts in depth investigations into referrals of alleged fraud cases using all available resources.
• Research and identify new investigation tools and shares with the unit.
• Conducts interviews with clients and potential witnesses associated with the investigation to obtain documentary evidence to determine past and present eligibility for assistance.
• Applies statement analysis methodology to identify deception in written statements.
• Prepares reports, reviews evidence, establishes overpayments/terminations and makes further recommendations regarding police involvement.
• Determines time periods and legislative reasons supporting overpayments/terminations.
• Supports Peel Regional Police to present and discuss all potential fraud cases. Assists the officer during formal cautions at the Fraud Bureau.
• Prepares comprehensive fraud briefs for presentation to the Police and Crown Attorney. Consults with and assists Crown Attorney and Police with interpreting Ontario Works legislation and involved in sentencing negotiations surrounding ongoing prosecutions.
• Prepares witnesses for tribunal and court proceedings, including witness statements and testimony.
• Represents the Region of Peel in criminal court and tribunal hearings.
• Identifies issues and trends regarding business practices, related to financial eligibility, fraud & theft and identifies training needs. Makes recommendations for improvements.
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of government policy, programs, case law, and legislation relevant to Ontario Works, legacy programs and other service level agreements partners.
• Acts as a resource to management and front-line staff on matters concerning eligibility in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and practices.
• Liaise with internal and external contacts to maintain effective working relationships as a representative for the Region of Peel.
• Discusses repayment obligations with clients.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, Vision benefit plan in accordance with the Collective Agreement (Regular Full Time)
• % in lieu of benefits in accordance with the Collective Agreement (Temporary Full Time )
• Automatic (Regular Full Time) or Voluntary (Temporary Full Time ) enrolment into OMERS pension plan (where applicable)
• Accrue Vacation in accordance with the Collective Agreement (Regular Full Time/where applicable)
• Flexible hours supporting your wellness and wellbeing
• Supportive leadership and a culture of respect and inclusion
• Access to tuition reimbursement (where applicable) and learning and development resources

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree