Self Sufficiency Specialist-Southbridge

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Southbridge, MA

About The Position

The Department of Transitional Assistance is seeking a Self Sufficiency Specialist to assess client needs and provide intensive support, targeted training, and employment assistance to people facing significant barriers to employment or self-sufficiency. The role serves high-risk clients, including teen parents and individuals experiencing mental health or substance abuse concerns, physical or cognitive limitations, homelessness, or domestic violence. It involves determining eligibility for transitional assistance and employment services, managing cases, coordinating referrals, and supporting individuals and families as they transition to work. DTA administers public assistance programs for low-income Massachusetts residents. Its mission is to assist and empower individuals and families to meet basic needs, improve their quality of life, and achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency. A criminal background check will be completed for the recommended candidate before hiring, and education, licensure, and certifications will be verified. Travel may be required based on assignment. Employees who use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid Massachusetts motor vehicle operator’s license or an equivalent license from another state.

Requirements

At least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in social work or social casework, claims adjudication, job placement, recruitment, employment counseling, vocational or rehabilitation counseling, credit investigation, educational counseling, legal advocacy, or legal counseling; qualifying education may substitute for some experience.
Knowledge of social and economic problems affecting the diverse client population and their impact on employability and self-sufficiency.
Knowledge of referral sources, community support, and social services resources available to clients.
Knowledge of English-language principles and usage for writing narratives, including grammar, spelling, sentence structure, word meaning, and punctuation.
High-level personal computer skills and more in-depth knowledge of various software options.
Knowledge of basic mathematics, interviewing techniques, and PC use.
Ability to understand and explain laws, rules, policies, and procedures relating to agency operations and financial-assistance eligibility.
Ability to gather and assemble information in accordance with established procedures.
Ability to acquire information about local labor market conditions and a wide variety of occupations.
Advanced knowledge and skill in employment counseling and employment placement principles and methods.
Ability to communicate effectively and prepare clear, concise, logical narratives and maintain accurate records.
Ability to determine the applicability of client data, draw conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations.
Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
Ability to assess and prioritize tasks and demonstrate problem-solving skills.
A bachelor's or higher degree may substitute for two years of required experience, at the rate of two years of education for one year of experience. One year of education equals 30 semester hours, and incomplete degree education is prorated based on the proportion of requirements completed.
Based on assignment, travel may be required. Employees who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must hold a current and valid Massachusetts motor vehicle operator’s license or an equivalent license from another state.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of career and educational counseling theories.
Prior case management experience with high-risk clients.
Proven ability to solve problems and motivate clients toward self-sufficiency while removing and resolving barriers to employment.
Prior experience supporting teen parents and assisting with their developmental needs.
Commitment to working with diverse populations.
Bilingual or multilingual fluency, given the population served.

Responsibilities

Provide case management to high-risk clients, including teen parents and individuals with mental health or substance abuse concerns, physical or cognitive limitations, homelessness, or domestic violence situations.
Maintain working knowledge of locally available programs related to the Employment Service Program and Young Parents Program.
Coordinate with the Department of Children and Families to refer clients to Teen Parenting Programs as needed.
Determine initial and ongoing eligibility for transitional assistance programs and employment services.
Conduct interactive interviews and obtain and verify client information.
Calculate benefit levels accurately and issue appropriate benefit authorizations.
Perform case maintenance and case management tasks, including referrals to state agencies, health care providers, and other sources as necessary.
Prepare and deliver explanations of eligibility decisions.
Evaluate and monitor high-risk client cases for compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
Provide services to assist individuals and families in transitioning to work.