About Us
Westbay Community Action, Inc. is a nonprofit, multi-service agency serving the needs of Kent County residents since 1966. We provide people with connections to grow through our services, partnerships, and advocacy efforts.
Summary
Our Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is seeking a self-motivated Eligibility Specialist. This position will compile, organize, and complete LIHEAP applications statewide in adherence to program guidelines and assist RI DHS and Community Action Agencies in efforts to increase LIHEAP productivity. In addition, this position will attend community events of various types to extend services through other social service agencies and community partners.
This is a full-time (37.5 hrs/week) position with a pay rate of $21.00/hr. Bilingual pay is $23.00/hour. Westbay offers a generous benefits package, including paid time off (vacation, sick and personal), 14 paid holidays, 401k match, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, and much more.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent required – bachelor’s degree in social work or related field preferred
- One year of experience within the LIHEAP Program or working with families and seniors preferred
- One year of experience in data entry
- Bilingual English/Spanish verbal and written, preferred
- The ability to travel to outreach/marketing events
- Must have a valid driver's license and car insurance
- Pass a BCI clearance
- Reliable transportation required
- Must maintain appropriate auto insurance coverage
Core Competencies
- Maintain confidentiality of clients and the agency
- Practice professionalism while representing clients and the agency
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks
- Ability to function well in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
- Must be detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects at a time
- Must be able to work independently and as a team member
Duties/Responsibilities
The duties listed are the primary functions of the job and are not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
- Works closely with supervisor in the development and implementation of the LIHEAP Program’s Centralized Team
- Process online and data migration LIHEAP applications statewide
- Coordinate statewide with community-based partners to aid in preparing and completing LIHEAP applications
- Travel statewide to community partners
- Promote Energy Assistance Programs in the community and various community partners
- Maintain a good working relationship with co-workers, vendors, and community partners
- Provide Short-term case management services for select participants of the Energy Assistance Program
- Conduct a client assessment and development of a case plan to minimize future crises
- Determine eligibility for needed resources and aid in the application process
- Coordinates all activities related to the processing of applications, including verification of income, eligibility, and payment requests
- Participate in outreach/community events to inform community members of services available.
- Advocate for the client’s retention of service with the utility company and other entitlement agencies
- Assure the confidentiality of all records/applications
- Maintain information needed for data collection and enter into Hancock and the agency's data system in an accurate and timely manner
- Open mail/online portals daily, check all applications for completeness, and return those needing more information.
- Organize all pending and completed applications
- Maintain open lines of communication with clients to ensure timely and accurate completion
- Maintain all walk-ins, telephone calls, and emails by providing information, program guidelines, and referral services to callers and clients
- Read and understand the program guidelines outlined in the LIHEAP manual.
- Maintain schedule in Microsoft Outlook
- Conduct home visits in a timely manner
- Prepare accurate reports and statistics as required
- Provide training to staff regarding programmatic operation, guidelines, procedures, and data entry.
- Inform clients of their rights and responsibilities
- Support the client’s efforts to have his/her voice heard and to get needed services
- Participate in meetings, trainings, outreach, and in public policy forums
- Educate clients about eligible services
- Assist the Supervisor as necessary
Physical Requirements
An employee must meet the physical demands described here to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. The employee must frequently use hands, fingers, handle or feel objects, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The environment is a business office environment and community/state-based organizations. Universal standard precautions are necessary due to the potential exposure to blood-borne pathogens, respiratory infections, and other biohazardous materials. This position requires the individual to have their own transportation, a current unrestricted license to drive, and documented auto insurance.
Westbay Community Action, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Organization.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
