Child Support Specialist

Polk County•Balsam Lake, WI

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Child Support Specialist is an advanced technical and legal position requiring independent judgment, initiative, and discretion in managing an assigned caseload. This role independently gathers, examines, and evaluates information related to the establishment, modification, and enforcement of child support orders, in accordance with Title IV-D of the Social Security Act and applicable County, State, and Federal regulations. The Child Support Specialist applies defined laws, policies, and procedures in delivering paternity services and overseeing all aspects of child support case management.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in paralegal studies, legal secretarial science, criminal justice, or a closely related legal field; or a four-year college degree.
One year of related work experience using the KIDS system within the past three years; OR five years of experience as a legal secretary or paralegal in a law office using a computer-based legal system.
A combination of education and work experience may be considered.
Strong written and verbal communication
Effective conflict resolution and mediation
Ability to analyze complex case information
Proficiency with computer-based legal systems and databases (including KIDS)
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Time management and prioritization in a fast-paced environment
Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality
Critical thinking and problem solving
Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment

Responsibilities

Provide high-quality customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
Maintain ongoing case management across a high volume of cases, determining necessary actions or modifications to child support orders.
Act as a mediator between parents to negotiate child support payment arrangements.
Communicate effectively with case participants, judges, attorneys, and agency partners, including providing sworn testimony in court hearings.
Collect, track, and monitor child support payments, including past-due and arrears collections.
Conduct investigations related to locating absent parents, determining income or income potential, establishing paternity, and other case-specific matters.
Evaluate case information to support the establishment, modification, and enforcement of child support orders.
Prepare and file legal documents—including summons, petitions, affidavits, motions, and remedial contempt paperwork—under attorney supervision.
Ensure legal documentation is accurate, timely, and compliant with program rules and regulations.
Complete administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, scheduling, and record maintenance.
Use specialized databases and online systems (including the KIDS system) to manage case information and support program operations.