Economic Support Specialist

Sieda Community Action•Fairfield, IA

3d•$15 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

Sieda Community Action’s Economic and Family Support Services Unit is seeking an Economic Support Specialist. This position is based in the Jefferson County office located in Fairfield. The Economic Support Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the economic programs in the county resource center. Major programs include LIHEAP, crisis utility assistance, resource and referral assistance, and special projects throughout the year. Occasional travel to the following counties may be asked for coverage as needed: Appanoose, Davis, Keokuk, Mahaska, Van Buren and Wapello. The typical working hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
1 year of experience working with the public
Moderate level computer knowledge and experience
Ability to use existing program software applications with minimal training
Ability to perform simple maintenance to keep computers operational
Strong organizational skills required
A thorough knowledge of office procedures, filing systems, office equipment and VOIP telephone systems is required
Ability to speak comfortably and effectively one-to-one or in group settings
Must be able to solve practical problems
Must demonstrate good listening skills
Ability to utilize electronic translation devices when needed
Must be able to speak courteously and in a clear manner
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret most complex documents
Ability to respond effectively to customers and staff
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
Ability to interpret an extensive variety of written rules and regulations and translate that information to various program staff in a format resulting in contractual compliance in the delivery of program services
Proof of auto insurance and valid driving license is required if travel reimbursement is claimed

Nice To Haves

Some College or vocational/technical training
Knowledge of issues surrounding persons experiencing poverty

Responsibilities

Acts and conducts all work in accordance with program standards and Sieda policy and procedures.
Assesses client needs and collects data from clientele to be entered into agency database and state LIHEAP system.
Makes appropriate referrals to available resources within the community to assist with identified barriers.
In outer counties, the ESS staff is responsible for opening and closing the Resource Center independently and correctly.
Works with local and regional utility companies to advocate on behalf of clientele.
Arranges approved financial assistance to assist clientele in maintaining needed household utilities such as electricity, propane, natural gas and when funded, water.
Processes applications and income eligibility checks for Sieda programs.
Assists the Resource Center Supervisor in providing temporary coverage in all seven counties in the event of an emergency, staff vacancy or other disruption to normal delivery services.
Communicates consistently with clients, staff, partners, and funders in a timely and effective manner.
Function as a team member in the Economic and Family Support Services unit and agency.
Communicates with the Resource Center Supervisor on a regular basis to discuss program concerns and potential changes to service to better meet the needs of the populations being served through Sieda.
Conducts low-income board elections in their county office and submits election information to the main Sieda office within established time frames.
Other duties determined necessary to support the Economic and Family Support Services Unit in achieving the goals of the agency.