JOB SUMMARY: This position reports directly to the Director of Social Services. The Social Services Assistance Caseworker will assist individuals applying for services within the Social Services department. The caseworker should be knowledgeable about community and tribal resources in order to share relevant information with clients. Communication with tribal members will occur in person, by telephone, by U.S. mail, and electronically, and a database will be maintained to record applicant information. The caseworker will also ensure that all necessary documents are collected to facilitate successful submissions for social services assistance. Additional duties may be assigned bv the Director of Social Services.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
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The individual will be responsible for answering all incoming calls, managing emails, and handling documentation through faxing and copying for case and participant files.
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This role includes the processing of applications for Burial Assistance, Tribal Emergency Assistance, General Assistance, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), among others.
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The individual will maintain a comprehensive log of clients served and enter data necessary for programmatic reporting.
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Responsibilities include accepting applications, reviewing them for completeness, attaching the necessary supporting documentation, and submitting them for further evaluation.
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Upon approval of applications, the individual will complete vouchers for submission to the finance department.
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Additional duties involve performing clerical tasks, data entry, and other computer-related activities as assigned.
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Familiarity with fundamental computer software such as Microsoft Word, Access, and Excel is required to complete daily tasks efficiently.
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The individual will respond to telephone inquiries, provide callers with information, and, if necessary, route calls to the appropriate program.
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Exemplary customer service skills are essential.
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The individual will be tasked with establishing applicant files and ensuring that all submitted documents are accurately filed.
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A vendor filing system will also be established, ensuring all correspondence is adequately organized upon receipt.
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The individual will be expected to possess knowledge of other available program services to facilitate necessary referrals.
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All correspondence must be mailed promptly, and the individual will ensure that all social service clients receive appropriate assistance or referrals for required services, as well as prepare payment vouchers.
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Confidentiality concerning all client records, files, and cases must be upheld at all times. Any breach of confidentiality will result in immediate termination of employment.
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The individual will be expected to work efficiently with the general public and collaborate with other service providers to ensure seamless service delivery.
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Support for departmental staff will be provided with assigned projects and activities.
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Adherence to all policies and procedures set forth by the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma is mandatory.
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The individual may be asked to perform additional duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS:
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High School Diploma or GED required.
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Basic computer skills.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and Adobe Acrobat.
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Knowledge of office machines and equipment (i.e., copier, fax, telephones, label maker, etc.)
REQUIREMENTS:
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Must possess a valid Oklahoma identification card.
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Must submit to and pass a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug test.
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Positions are subject to random drug testing according to the Tribe's Drug-Free Workplace Policy.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
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Must be able to multitask and be proficient in responsibilities.
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Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
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Must be able to provide excellent customer service to the public.
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Must be able to lift twenty-five (25) pounds at times.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Kiowa Tribe does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
According to the Kiowa Tribe Human Resources Policies and Procedures, the Kiowa Tribe recognizes Kiowa Preference first, other federally recognized tribes second and other races last.
Indian Preference applies in accordance with Indian Preference Act of 1934 (Title 25, USC Section 472), BIA Form 4432, Tribal Identification or Certificate Degree of Indian Blood must be submitted with employment application to receive Indian Preference.