SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST - SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM

La Crosse County • La Crosse, WI

21h • Hybrid

About The Position

This is a paraprofessional position in the Human Services Department to which employee is selected and supervised by the Nutrition Program Supervisor. Employee works under close to moderate supervision to support the daily operations of the Senior Nutrition Program.

Requirements

• Knowledge of policies, laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the ADRC, particularly the nutrition program as established by the Older American Act.
• Knowledge of hygiene and sanitary regulations governing the handling, preparation, and serving of food.
• Knowledge and understanding of aging, disabilities, and nutrition.
• Knowledge of community, organizations, and support services for older adults.
• Ability to plan and develop educational materials.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft programs including Windows, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and organize work to ensure timely completion.
• Ability to understand and practice the confidential nature of the position.
• Ability to interact with participants and volunteers in a courteous and respectful manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to be prompt and regular when reporting to work.
• Ability to interview people, extract information and make good, independent judgements.
• Ability to accept, adapt, and adjust to changes.
• Ability to participate in meaningful training or educational opportunities provided by the agency, State or other resources.
• Ability to effectively work with diverse populations.
• Position requires some level of experience and/or advanced training in food management or related field.
• If not already certified, must obtain Applied Food Service Sanitation certification within 30 days after start of employment.
• Experience working with older adults and/or individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.
• Experience using various computer programs and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Must have and maintain valid driver’s license, good driving record, access to personal transportation and meet the minimum insurance requirements of the County, or other reliable means for County-wide travel.

Responsibilities

• Maintains regular communication and check-in with nutrition program sites.
• Assists with responding to requests for nutrition services by determining participant eligibility and route availability, collecting required customer information, and reviewing program details with applicant.
• Enters and maintains nutrition participant information in data management system in a timely fashion.
• Ensures nutrition program forms and reporting documents are completed accurately and on schedule in accordance with program requirements, files participant and program records in a timely fashion.
• Generates monthly Nutrition Program contribution/donation statements for participants.
• Assists with the development and presentation of nutrition education at nutrition program sites, as well as educational articles for the La Crosse Senior Life newsletter and other materials as appropriate.
• Refers participants and/or caregivers to ADRC Professionals when additional needs are identified.
• Participates in state, regional, and local meetings, including applicable training for nutrition program.
• Provides back-up for nutrition program operations, including but not limited to nutrition site management, congregate dining serving, and home delivered meals packing and/or delivery.
• Maintains strict confidentiality of work-related information.
• In this public service position, employee is required to be courteous, cooperative, and respectful always, with the public and clients. Also establishes and maintains a courteous, cooperative, and respectful working relationship with other employees, supervisors, and public officials.
• Employee is expected to report to work when scheduled, with minimum use of sick leave, to build up sick leave balance for income protection for unexpected illness.
• May be required to work nights, weekends, or during community emergencies and/or disasters, when work may vary from normal job responsibilities.

Benefits

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)
• Affordable Insurance Premiums: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick, and 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules and wellness programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees