Human Services Specialist 2

Arizona Department of Administration•Phoenix, AZ

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Department of Economic Security’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is seeking a Human Services Specialist 2 to support eligibility determinations and related services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. DDD provides flexible, high-quality, member-driven services and supports that promote independent decision-making and community engagement. The role is based at 9801 North 7th Street, Phoenix, Arizona. The position conducts eligibility interviews, reviews referrals and redeterminations, compiles information from varied sources, and makes recommendations regarding DDD eligibility. It also screens applications, connects applicants with community resources as appropriate, maintains member files and progress notes, reviews documentation, researches disability diagnoses, and corresponds with families about applications and service denials. The position attends training and meetings. Applicants may not be licensed or certified by the DDD Office of Licensing Certification and Regulation, have a principal interest in a DDD Qualified Vendor Agreement themselves or through a spouse or close family member, or be employed or subcontracted by a DDD Qualified Vendor. Candidates must also satisfy the stated fingerprint-card, registry-search, background, reference, and employment eligibility requirements. A valid driver’s license and related requirements apply if driving is an essential function of the position.

Requirements

Knowledge of federal and state statutes and agency policies and procedures relating to care and assistance for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of HIPAA, case management, community resources, medical and behavioral health issues and terminology, applied behavioral interventions, child and human development, procurement and purchasing practices, crisis intervention, and social work practices.
Oral and written communication skills.
Skills in developing, evaluating, and maintaining member eligibility plans; interviewing, counseling, and interacting with members and families; conducting needs assessments; and identifying and resolving problems.
Interpersonal skills for working with members, representatives of government and community organizations, and the public.
Ability to work independently and in diverse teams, manage an eligibility caseload, meet mandated documentation timelines, and maintain confidentiality.
Two years of professional experience coordinating social service activities, such as person-centered service plans, client referrals, or community services; alternatively, one year as a Human Service Specialist I in Arizona State Service.
Valid Level One fingerprint clearance card required to work with children and vulnerable adults.
Subject to searches of the Department of Child Safety Central Registry and Adult Protective Services Registry, and successful background and reference checks.
Must successfully complete electronic employment eligibility requirements.
If driving or using a vehicle is an essential job function, must possess and retain a current, valid, class-appropriate driver’s license, complete required training and record checks, and maintain an acceptable driving record. Employees using a personally owned vehicle on state business must maintain required liability insurance.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience coordinating social service activities, or experience as a Human Service Specialist I in Arizona State Service, as specified under Selective Preference(s).

Responsibilities

Conduct eligibility interviews and review eligibility referrals and redeterminations.
Track redeterminations and compile information from a variety of sources to recommend DDD eligibility determinations.
Receive and screen applications and refer applicants to community resources when appropriate.
Write comprehensive progress notes and set up new member files.
Review documentation, make eligibility determinations, and research disability diagnoses.
Correspond with families regarding initial applications, denials of service, and related matters.
Attend training and meetings.
Coordinate and facilitate eligibility interviews as needed.
Organize and manage an eligibility caseload, document files within required timelines, and maintain confidentiality.

Benefits

Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans.
Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System and long-term disability plans.
10 paid holidays per year.
Paid vacation and sick time.
Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks per year for a newborn or newly placed foster or adopted child.
Deferred compensation plan.
Wellness plans.
Tuition reimbursement.
Stipend opportunities.
Infant at Work Program.
Rideshare and public transit subsidy.
Career advancement and employee development opportunities.