Human Services Assistant I

Virginia Department of Social Services•Manassas Park, VA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position provides a variety of services while working in one or more program areas performing effective administrative and technical duties in support of agency clients. The Human Services Assistant (HSA) will operate various computer systems to conduct searches for initial applications, renewals, and re-certifications; deliver information and assist clients with completing applications and paperwork; attend to customers and answer incoming calls; support Benefit Programs staff in managing their caseloads; prepare and mail correspondences; provide information and referrals and verify information as required for other community resources; update client information in online systems; present oral accounts and/or written documentation regarding customers, verification letters, and other circumstances; create and label case files and complete appropriate forms; and assist in preparing periodic, special, and other reports. Follow up with referrals to ancillary agencies; research and purge case records; gather and input a variety of financial and statistical data, generate reports, and upload case documentation; monitor computer systems and inform staff when information needs to be updated; research closed records for requested information. All other duties assigned.

Requirements

Working knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, office forms and applications, and other office procedures and terminology.
Working knowledge of mathematics sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, divide, compute rate, ratio and percent; and to draw and interpret graphs.
Some knowledge of basic human service needs and state computer programs.
Skill in operating various automated equipment, which includes fax/copiers, calculators, multi-line phones.
Ability to use word-processing, worksheets, and graphics and file maintenance programs.
Demonstrated ability to work with clients, co-workers, professionals, and the public.
Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend simple documents.
Demonstrated ability to write simple correspondence.
Demonstrated ability to take minutes at various meetings.
Demonstrated ability to present information in one-on-one and small group situations.
Demonstrated ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Demonstrated ability to perform basic mathematics.
Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and prioritize daily tasks.
Demonstrated ability to use correct spelling and basic grammar.
Demonstrated ability to display common courtesy and be a team player.
Experience working with the public providing customer service.
Bilingual –English/Spanish reading/speaking skills are required.
High school diploma with work experience in customer service or general clerical work involving contact with the public OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma supplemented by related experience in social services or a related field, OR graduation from an accredited two-year college or university with a degree.
Experience using State-related applications such as VaCMS, SPIDeR, and EPPIC is highly desirable.
Knowledge of the local Department of Social Services.
Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (reading, writing, and speaking) is also required.
An equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
Valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license is required, in addition to a driving record that meets agency standards.
Willingness to participate in community shelter operations during disasters and/or emergencies.

Responsibilities

Operate various computer systems to conduct searches for initial applications, renewals, and re-certifications.
Deliver information and assist clients with completing applications and paperwork.
Attend to customers and answer incoming calls.
Support Benefit Programs staff in managing their caseloads.
Prepare and mail correspondences.
Provide information and referrals and verify information as required for other community resources.
Update client information in online systems.
Present oral accounts and/or written documentation regarding customers, verification letters, and other circumstances.
Create and label case files and complete appropriate forms.
Assist in preparing periodic, special, and other reports.
Follow up with referrals to ancillary agencies.
Research and purge case records.
Gather and input a variety of financial and statistical data, generate reports, and upload case documentation.
Monitor computer systems and inform staff when information needs to be updated.
Research closed records for requested information.
Assist other units and departments with tasks.
Schedule and reschedule appointments.
Provide translations in Spanish and English.