Human Services Specialist

Important Recruitment Information for this vacancy

Kansas Department for Children and Families | (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov
Economic and Employment Services
Southwest Region / Dodge City

• Who can apply:
  External (anyone)
• Classified/Unclassified Service:
  Unclassified
• Full-Time/Part-Time:
  Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary:
  Regular
• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday-Friday
• Eligible to Receive Benefits:
  Yes
• Veterans' Preference Eligible:
  Yes

Compensation: $19.35 hourly. Salary may depend on qualifications and experience.

In addition to the starting salary, the State of Kansas offers a significant benefits package available the first day of employment. All full‑time employees may enroll in:

• Health Insurance (medical, dental, vision, optional partner/dependent coverage at reduced cost)
• KPERS defined Retirement contribution
• 9-10 paid annual holidays
• 12 paid annual vacation days
• 12 paid annual sick days
• 1 paid discretionary day
• Life insurance equal to 150% of starting salary

* This benefits package represents additional annual compensation.

• Collect and analyze information to determine eligibility and monitor changes in household circumstances for payment benefits.
• Investigate questionable situations and notify appropriate departments and agencies of discrepancies identified.
• Refer customers to appropriate services.
• Obtain information on household composition, income, resources, expenses through client interviews, application reviews, and electronic verification.
• Interview applicants in person or by telephone to collect required data.
• Apply program knowledge for Cash, Food Assistance, Child Care, and LIEAP programs to determine eligibility and benefit amounts.
• Enter and document data in eligibility systems and case file documentation tools.
• Maintain confidentiality of protected health information (PHI) in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
• Communicate with internal and external sources, including work programs, child support, and referral agencies.
• Provide referrals to internal and external services and direct clients to resources such as United Way 211.
• Attend unit meetings, team huddles, policy sessions, mandated training, and approved online training.
• Assist in communicating the agency’s mission, vision, and guiding principles to peers, clients, and the public.
• Contribute to a positive work environment through courteous demeanor towards staff, clients, and the general public.
• Adhere to standards of conduct regarding leave and punctuality.

Two years of experience interviewing, investigating, compiling information, documenting decisions, interpreting guidelines, and/or providing technical assistance relevant to the agency's programs. Post‑secondary education may substitute for experience as determined relevant by the agency.

• Required background check (criminal, welfare fraud, driver’s license, Child/Adult Abuse and Neglect Central Registry, FBI check). Must obtain and maintain clearance prior to and throughout employment.
• Valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate required; must be obtained within ten (10) days of job offer.

The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified individuals will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability, or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

If you identify as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like a reasonable accommodation, please address the request to the agency recruiter.