Social Services Worker_NE-AOK_701-Social Services Department

Social Services Worker

Job Summary:

Provides social service assistance to eligible clients in the following areas: Food, lodging, clothing, furniture, and financial assistance; interviews clients to determine need and eligibility to receive services; prepares accurate and complete client records; refers clients to community agencies and maintains effective working relationships with the same; ensures compliance with program policies and procedures.

Essential Functions: (60%)

This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of this position.  The incumbent may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description.

Greets and interview clients requesting assistance to determine client’s eligibility for assistance based on program guidelines and restrictions; records clients disposition and other pertinent information such as income, expenses, family and work history; assists clients in completing applications for assistance; copies of picture ids, payroll statements, utility bills etc.

Prepares completes, and processes food, clothing, and furniture vouchers for eligible clients; directs clients to lodge kitchen, thrift store or Distribution center for assistance.

Provides clients with food from pantry; receives and stocks items donated for the pantry; maintains an itemized account of pantry disbursements and inventory.

Locates and arranges temporary housing for eligible clients, contacts local lodges, homeless shelters, motels, churches, etc. for lodging.

Assists eligible clients needing transportation assistance based on medical or relocation needs; arrange transportation through bus-line and contacts family members, friends, churches for assistance.

Serves as liaison to other agencies to obtain/coordinate assistance on client’s behalf; builds and maintains professional working relationships with community agencies.

Prepares and files client records in a timely manner ensuring all information is accurate and up to date; obtains signatures of clients as needed; reviews and tracks all client’s records to determine if client is active or inactive; maintains confidentiality of client information.

Prepares and maintains statistical records on all services provided; compiles and prepares monthly statistical reports; ensures the accuracy and completeness of the same.

Answers telephone in a courteous and tactful manner; assists clients by providing accurate and complete information regarding the social service program operations and/or services; assists public in locating missing persons.                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Other Responsibilities: (40%)

Types and files routine correspondence, documents, lists, reports, etc. on behalf of the commanding officer.

Receives and processes incoming mail; prepares deposits of funds received in an accurate and timely manner.

Prepares, maintains, and balances bookkeeping records ensuring the accurate and timely accountability of funds; prepares and records checks for utility companies.

May serve as coordinator for a specific program such as senior citizens or food programs; plans and coordinates program arrangements; sets-up program meeting area; ensures clients of program are served effectively.

Performs related work for special and seasonal projects.

Performs other related work as required.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Materials and Equipment:

Computer                        Copy Machine

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge or general office practices and principles.

Knowledge of social service practices and principles.

Ability to interview clients to evaluate and serve their needs.

Ability to determine client eligibility for program assistance based on specific program guidelines and restrictions.

Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with the public and community agencies.

Ability to prepare accurate and complete client records, reports and statistics.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Education and Experience

High school diploma or GED

And two years’ experience working in a social or public service environment with experience assisting the public,

Or

Any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Certifications/Licenses:

None

Physical Requirements

Ability to meet attendance requirements.

Ability to read, write, and communicate the English language.

Ability to perform mathematical calculations.

Ability to type and keypunch information into computer.

Ability to sort and file documents alphabetically and numerically.

Ability to operate various general office equipment including a telephone, computer, and adding machine.

Limited amount of physical effort required associated with walking, standing, lifting and carrying light objects (less than 25lbs) 5- 10% of work time.

Duties are usually performed seated. Sitting may be relieved by brief or occasional periods of standing or walking.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in a normal office environment where there are little or no physical discomforts associated with changes in weather or discomforts associated with noise, dust, and the like

Statement of Purpose

This document provides descriptive information about the above Salvation Army position. Work performed by incumbents in this position may vary. Although this document may be used for recruiting, staffing, or career planning, the information contained herein should only be used as a guideline or recommendation for the content of and qualifications for this position. An individual’s ability to meet the qualifications and capabilities described in this document is not a guarantee of employment or promotion. The Salvation Army reserves the right to make changes to this document as deemed necessary without providing advance written notice.

All employees recognize that The Salvation Army is a church and agree that they will do nothing as an employee of The Salvation Army to undermine its religious mission.

When an application is selected for review, typically, only applicants who indicate the relevant education and experience requirements, as indicated in the job description for the position, may be considered for job openings. Please FULLY complete the application, answer questions completely, honestly and to the best of your ability. Please also upload a copy of your resume (when available). Those applicants requiring accommodation to the application and/or interview process should contact a representative of the Human Resources Department at the applicable location.

We appreciate your interest in employment opportunities with The Salvation Army!