Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Case Worker - Northern Region - Continuous Posting

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Chelsea, MA

About The Position

The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) is hiring SNAP Case Workers for its Northern Region. The role assists individuals and families with determining eligibility for SNAP and other applicable assistance programs, and connects clients with benefits and community resources that promote stability and economic self-sufficiency. DTA provides comprehensive training, ongoing guidance, and support, including training in eligibility determination, case management, and community-resource connections. Employment offers and office assignments depend on agency staffing needs. Northern Region offices are in Chelsea, Lawrence, Lowell, Malden, and Salem. The position requires strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills; comfort using computer-based systems; the ability to manage multiple priorities; and a commitment to respectful, equitable, responsive service to people from diverse backgrounds. The position has a minimum entrance requirement of two years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional or paraprofessional experience in specified human-services, counseling, adjudication, recruitment, or related fields. A bachelor's or higher degree may substitute for required experience at two years of education for one year of experience. Based on assignment, travel may be required. Employees who choose to use a motor vehicle for travel must hold a current, valid Massachusetts Class D driver's license or equivalent from another state. A criminal background check is required before hire for the recommended candidate. Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified. This is a continuous posting: applicants remain active for 90 days and may be considered as openings arise.

Requirements

Knowledge of proper English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence structure, and the ability to prepare clear, accurate written communications.
Knowledge of basic mathematical principles and calculations.
Knowledge of interviewing techniques for gathering and evaluating information.
Knowledge of community resources, referral services, and social-service programs available to individuals and families.
At least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or paraprofessional 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.
A bachelor's or higher degree may substitute for the required experience at two years of education for one year of experience; education toward a degree is prorated according to completed requirements.
If using a motor vehicle for travel, a current, valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's license or equivalent from another state is required.

Nice To Haves

Strong customer-service and interpersonal skills, including professional communication with people from diverse backgrounds.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including prioritizing assignments and managing multiple responsibilities.
Proficiency with computer applications, data entry, and electronic recordkeeping systems.
Ability to conduct interviews, gather relevant information, review documentation, and make accurate, informed determinations.
Ability to interpret, apply, and clearly explain laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, accurate recordkeeping, and discretion when handling confidential information.
Problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to evaluate information and identify appropriate solutions.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment.
Empathy, interpersonal awareness, and professionalism when assisting people experiencing financial hardship or challenging personal circumstances.
Ability to remain composed, adaptable, and productive while managing competing priorities and stressful situations.
Experience in customer service, human services, case management, administrative support, or another role involving direct public interaction.
Bilingual or multilingual proficiency.

Responsibilities

Assist individuals and families in determining initial and ongoing eligibility for SNAP benefits and other applicable assistance programs.
Complete assigned case actions through an action-based, first-available-worker process accurately, thoroughly, and on time.
Conduct client interviews by telephone and other approved methods to gather, review, and verify information using agency eligibility systems.
Maintain accurate client records, process case updates, and comply with established policies and procedures.
Clearly and professionally explain eligibility decisions, program requirements, and available benefits.
Connect clients with additional assistance programs, community organizations, healthcare providers, and other resources.
Review and evaluate client information, resolve discrepancies, and make decisions consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and agency guidelines.
Provide compassionate customer service while managing multiple priorities in a high-volume environment.