Economic Support Specialist; Bilingual - Spanish

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Dane County Department of Human Services, Economic Assistance and Work Services Division, in Madison, Wisconsin, is recruiting for a full‑time (1.0 FTE) Economic Support Specialist (Bilingual – Spanish) position. Employees who work in bilingual designated positions receive an additional $2.00 per hour (this is not reflected in the above hourly rate). This recruitment includes a Written Exam and Spanish and English Listening and Speaking Exams.

The Eligibility List created from this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies over the next six (6) months. Note to applicants – for the 2026 budget year, there is a 1% reduction in wages (already reflected above), an additional 21 holiday hours, and continued earning of longevity and merit steps.

As an employer, we strive to provide a work environment where diversity and differing opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged, continuous learning and improvement are fostered, teamwork and open/honest communication are encouraged, and meeting customers’ needs through quality service is a shared goal. All employees must be able to demonstrate multicultural competence – the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed to work with others who are culturally different from self in meaningful, relevant, and productive ways.

Applicants from traditionally under‑represented populations including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

An entry level classification in the Economic Assistance Division of the Department of Human Services, under general supervision, to perform call center and case management functions for applicants/recipients of Medical Assistance, Child Care Subsidies, Food Stamp Program, and other economic assistance programs; to apply complex federal, state, and local policies to achieve program objectives; to provide information and referral services to Dane County residents;

and to do related work as required.

Approximately 75% of the Economic Support Specialist (ESS) duties are to answer calls and address customer issues as part of an eight (8) county call center, which may include many of the duties listed. Provides case management to participants of economic assistance and employment programs in person, on the phone, or electronically; accepts applications for program benefits; determines eligibility through interviews, documents, and collateral investigations;

enters information in computerized eligibility systems and other computer programs; explains agency services, payment delivery, and client rights and responsibilities; maintains accurate, well‑documented case files; effectively utilizes case management tools, including computer documents; accurately determines program placement and payments; responds to emergency need situations; makes referrals for supportive services; maintains an effective working relationship with collateral agencies; maintains a current knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations and local policies;

investigates complaints and fraud allegations; prepares for and offers testimony in administrative (civil) and criminal hearings; and regularly attends in‑service training programs.

Any combination of education, training and experience equivalent to High School graduation (or equivalent) and two (2) years’ experience providing case management and/or eligibility determination of clients. Two (2) years of related college study may be substituted for the described experience. Must have at least one (1) year of experience with electronic data processing equipment and use of current computer programs.

Flexibility of job position and office location is essential. No one is permanently assigned to a specific unit or office. Good organizational skills are imperative to a successful career. A valid driver’s license (or eligibility for) and access to personal transportation may be required for some positions. For positions requiring a driver’s license and transportation, candidates who reach the final selection…