Economic Assistance Case Worker-Malden

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Malden, MA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Economic Assistance Case Worker. Our ideal candidate has demonstrated knowledge of the Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC), Emergency Aid to Elderly, Disabled, and Children (EAEDC), and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) and will determine initial and ongoing eligibility for economic assistance programs. DTA attracts people passionate about public service, who love to work in a fast-paced environment, and who are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Requirements

• At least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in social work or social casework, claims adjudication, job placement, recruitment, employment counseling, vocational or rehabilitation counseling, credit investigation, educational counseling, legal advocacy, or legal counseling.
• A Bachelor's or higher degree may be substituted for two years of the required experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.
• One year of education equals 30 semester hours. Education toward a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
• Knowledge of referral sources available for providing services to clients, including available community support and social services resources.
• Knowledge of the social and economic problems of the diverse client population and the related impact on employability and economic mobility.
• Ability to read, interpret, apply, and explain the provisions of the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, specifications, standards, and guidelines governing agency operations and assigned unit activities.
• Ability to gather and assemble items of information in accordance with established procedures through interviewing and observing individuals and by examining records and documents.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, logical narratives and maintain accurate records of information provided orally or in writing.
• Ability to determine the applicability of client data, to draw conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with tact, to exercise sound judgment, and exercise discretion in handling confidential information.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated knowledge of referral sources available for providing services to clients, including available community support and social services resources.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the social and economic barriers of the diverse client population and the related impact on employability and self-sufficiency.
• Ability to effectively communicate and maintain accurate records both orally and in writing.
• Ability to understand persons from different ethnic, cultural, and/or economic backgrounds.
• Ability to demonstrate empathy toward those with physical and/or emotional stress and maintain a calm manner in stressful and/or emergency situations.
• Ability to prioritize and organize several tasks and demonstrate problem-solving skills under adverse working conditions.
• Ability to use personal computer (PC) based systems and applications.
• Bilingual or multilingual fluency.

Responsibilities

• Perform all case maintenance tasks related to TAFDC, EAEDC, and SNAP, and assist with additional assistance for benefits, referrals to other state agencies and community partners, and other resources to support clients as necessary.
• Prepare and deliver explanations of initial and ongoing eligibility decisions.
• Conduct interactive interviews utilizing the agency’s PC based eligibility system.
• Obtain, review, verify, and process client information and determine eligibility.
• Provide responsive client-centered communication that supports individual family goals.
• Determine work program requirement status for clients of TAFDC and ensure all clients are connected to employment and training opportunities available.
• Assist clients with developing and implementing an employment plan and provide services that support client economic mobility and employment.
• Provide guidance, resources, and placement assistance for job training and support services available in the community, including employment plans, education and skill assessments, childcare, and transportation when appropriate.
• Monitor the sanction process and employ reengagement strategies to promote client participation and mitigate challenges.
• Evaluate and monitor client cases to ensure compliance with applicable rules, regulations, and guidelines.
• Report all Domestic Violence issues to the appropriate Domestic violence specialist immediately.
• Ensure all clients are made aware of ADA services provided by the required staff.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits
• Outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package.
• Work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level