Supervises a unit of WorkFirst Program Specialists and staff who provide direct case management services to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)/WorkFirst clients.

Manages and supervises a WorkFirst unit that provides services and support to WorkFirst clients having varying degrees of social, cultural, educational, and medical impairments hindering economic independence;

Conducts WorkFirst policy monitoring and provides feedback to WorkFirst Program Specialists and other unit members;

Interprets policy and procedures regarding eligibility for WorkFirst Program, Financial Services, Basic Food Program, support services and medical benefits;

Consults with WorkFirst Program Specialists and/or Social Service Specialists regarding case planning and decision making for a positive outcome;

May supervise Social Service Specialists and Public Benefits Specialists;

Develops strategies for transitioning clients toward self-sufficiency while assisting in client accountability goals and other performance measures;

Coordinates with staff and partners to maximize opportunities for client participation;

Inputs, obtains and reviews necessary data in multiple computer systems and maintains client confidentiality;

Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: State and federal welfare and welfare reform laws; rules and regulations; interviewing techniques; employability assessments to include medical conditions, criminal justice issues, childcare requirements, housing, transportation, work history and labor market requirements; principles of individual and group behavior, social behavior, social and economic conditions, and their effects upon individuals; office procedures and practices; supervisory skills and management principles.

Ability to: express ideas clearly; work cooperatively with staff, clients, and members of the community; make independent decisions in the referral of clients to internal/external resources to enhance their employability; exhibit tact, courtesy and discretion; convey interest and concern to clients requesting information or assistance with problems related to the various programs; be a contributing and effective member of the Community Service Office Management Team; analyze management information and recommend modifications to improve program performance.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

One year of experience as a WorkFirst Program Specialist or Public Benefits Specialist 5.

OR

Two years of leadwork experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 4.

Equivalent education/experience.

New Class: Effective 12-1-02
Revised new class code: (formerly 34995) effective July 1, 2007

Revised definition, typical work, and knowledge and abilities; adopted June 30, 2017; effective July 1, 2017.
Revised typical work and desirable qualifications effective January 8, 2020.