Economic Support Specialist

Sieda Community Action•Centerville, IA

6d•$16 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Sieda Community Action’s Economic and Family Support Services Unit is hiring an Economic Support Specialist I for its Appanoose County resource center in Centerville. The role is responsible for the day-to-day operation of county economic programs, primarily LIHEAP, ECIP, resource and referral assistance, and special projects. The position works primarily Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Occasional travel to Davis, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren, and Wapello counties may be requested to provide coverage. Travel is required both within and outside the service area. The position receives periodic supervision, has limited independent decision-making authority, and has no supervisory responsibilities. It represents resource center programming through varying, moderate levels of interaction with clients, staff, and other agencies. The employee participates in planning a single program related to their responsibilities and must obtain training required by agency or program guidelines.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 1 year of experience working with the public.
Moderate computer knowledge and experience, including the ability to use existing program software applications with minimal training and perform simple computer maintenance.
Strong organizational skills.
Thorough knowledge of office procedures, filing systems, office equipment, and VOIP telephone systems.
Ability to speak effectively one-to-one and in group settings; demonstrate good listening skills; and respond effectively to clients and staff.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and interpret written rules and regulations.
Valid driver’s license, vehicle, and insurance are required by the posting; proof of auto insurance and a valid driving license are required if travel reimbursement is claimed.

Nice To Haves

Some college or vocational/technical training.
Knowledge of issues surrounding people experiencing poverty.

Responsibilities

Conduct work in accordance with program standards and Sieda policies and procedures.
Assess client needs and collect client data for entry into the agency database and state LIHEAP system.
Refer clients to appropriate community resources to help address identified barriers.
Open and close the resource center independently and correctly when working in outer counties.
Work with local and regional utility companies to advocate for clients and arrange approved assistance with household utilities, including electricity, propane, natural gas, and, when funded, water.
Process applications and income-eligibility checks for Sieda programs.
Assist the Resource Center Supervisor with temporary coverage across all seven counties during emergencies, staff vacancies, or other service disruptions.
Communicate in a timely and effective manner with clients, staff, partners, and funders.
Work as a team member in the Economic and Family Support Services unit and agency.
Communicate regularly with the Resource Center Supervisor about program concerns and possible service changes to better meet community needs.
Conduct low-income board elections in the county office and submit election information to the main Sieda office within established time frames.
Perform other duties needed to support the unit and agency goals.
Support and model the agency and unit mission, vision, and values; maintain regular attendance; behave professionally; treat individuals courteously, non-judgmentally, and confidentially; and cooperate with staff.
Communicate clearly and courteously, listen effectively, solve practical problems, and use electronic translation devices when needed.
Interpret written rules and regulations and communicate them to program staff in a way that supports contractual compliance.