JUNIOR RESOURCE SPECIALIST

State of careers Rhode Island

4d•$51,827 - $57,567•Onsite

About The Position

This position within the Office of Healthy Aging reports to the Supervisor of Adult Protective Services (APS). The Adult Protective Services Support Worker is an integral part of the Elder Rights and Safety Unit (ERS) that is responsible for the receipt of calls to the APS line, triaging calls and supporting the work of the APS Unit through various administrative tasks. Under the direction of the APS Supervisor, the Adult Protective Services Support Worker will work with a diverse population of older adults, families, and caregivers in the field of protective services, and collaboratively with ERS staff in the specialized field of APS. The role also involves collaborating with community partners to mitigate risk to Rhode Island’s older adults.

Requirements

Successful completion of at least two years of academic study in an accredited institution of higher education.
Employment in a social service agency involved in human resources development.
A working knowledge of the methods and techniques involved in the collection and organization of social and economic data used in the planning and development and operation of human resource programs.
The ability to carry out, under direction, studies and surveys.
The ability to analyze and evaluate data and make program planning recommendations.
The ability to assist state, local and community organization officials as well as the general public.
Related capacities and abilities necessary to carry out human resource programs.
Proficient knowledge of computer programs and experience working with web-based databases.
Ability to take initiative, multi-task, possess good judgment, and work independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Commitment to community-informed decision making.
Strong and effective communication skills.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, and protecting the rights and safety of older adults in Rhode Island.

Responsibilities

Support daily administrative operations by handling high-volume tasks, coordinating multiple responsibilities.
Effectively and compassionately communicate with callers who are experiencing stressful situations.
Provide front-line administrative support by receiving APS calls, assessing inquiries using a triage tool, and directing callers to the appropriate resources. Answer phones live. Complete a pre-screening triage report. When appropriate, transfer calls to APS screeners and/or investigators. Log calls appropriately in human services data system.
Support APS operations by contacting community organizations to obtain critical documentation and information for case follow-up, including hospitals, law enforcement, and database systems (e.g., LexisNexis).
Perform administrative tasks, including but not limited to, receiving faxed documents and uploading to client records, assisting staff with expense related tasks, etc. Cross reference the tax liens list to active APS clients
Attend meetings and conferences, as assigned by APS Supervisor, related to RI APS.
Respect and maintain confidentiality, professional protocols, and individual privacy.
Identify client needs, resources, and services available to victims, families, and caregivers, and offer appropriate resources.
Perform other duties as assigned.