Economic Support Specialist

Sieda Community Action’s Economic and Family Support Services Unit is seeking a Economic Support Specialist. This position is based in the Davis and Van Buren County offices located in Bloomfield and Keosauqua. The Economic Support Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the economic programs in the county resource centers. Major programs are; LIHEAP, crisis utility assistance, resource and referral assistance and special projects throughout the year.

Occasional travel to the following counties may be asked for coverage as needed:
Appanoose, Jefferson, Keokuk, Mahaska, and Wapello. Working primarily Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm

High School Diploma or GED. Some College or vocational/technical training preferred

Requires 1 year of experience working with the public. Prefer knowledge of issues surrounding persons experiencing poverty.

Requires moderate level computer knowledge and experience, has the ability to use existing program software applications with minimal training and can perform simple maintenance to keep computers operational.

Please read full description listed below.

The Economic Support Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the economic programs in the county resource centers. Major programs are; LIHEAP, crisis utility assistance, resource and referral assistance and special projects throughout the year.

• The Economic Support Specialist performs multiple duties requiring moderate skills.
• Acts and conducts all work in accordance with program standards and Sieda policy and procedures.
• Maintains adequate inventory of cleaning/maintenance supplies for the county office(s) assigned.
• Assesses client needs and collects data from clientele to be entered into company database's.
• Makes appropriate referrals to available resources within the community to assist with identified barriers.
• Works with local utility companies to advocate on behalf of clientele. Arranges approved financial assistance to assist clientele in maintaining needed household utilities such as electricity, propane, natural gas and water.
• Maintains accurate, complete and current files for clientele served in each county.
• Assist the Resource Center Supervisor in providing temporary assistance in all seven counties in the event of an emergency, staff vacancy or other disruption to normal delivery services.
• Function as a team member in unit and agency activities.
• Communicates with the Resource Center Supervisor on a regular basis to discuss program concerns and potential changes to service in order to better meet the needs of the populations being served through Sieda.
• Other duties determined necessary to support the Economic and Family Support Services Unit in achieving the goals of the agency.

• Receives periodic supervision regarding task guidelines and completion

• Limited independent decision-making authority

• Obtain specific training required by agency or program guidelines.
• Travel is required both in and outside the service area. Proof of auto insurance and valid driving license is required if employee claims travel reimbursement.

• Requires varying, moderate levels of interaction with staff, customer and other agencies in a role where they represent a Resource Center programming.

• Involved in the planning of a single program reflective of his/her job responsibilities.

• None

• Supports and models the agency’s mission, vision, and values.
• Maintain a regular attendance pattern to assure continuity of services and adequate staff coverage.
• Demonstrate professional behavior at all times including appearance and maintaining an orderly functioning office area.
• Treat all individuals in a courteous, non-judgmental, reasonable and confidential manner.

• Ability to speak comfortably and effectively one-to-one or in group settings.
• Must be able to solve practical…