Office Associate III-Screener

Virginia Department of Social Services; Waynesboro (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Department of Social Services is seeking an office/clerical professional to screen client applications for benefit programs and assist applicants with their forms. The role involves data entry, research in databases and uploading verifications to secure records, plus coordinating client appointments.

Required are strong spelling/grammar, computer skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with the public and coworkers.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with related clerical or administrative experience.
• Strong spelling, grammar, punctuation and office terminology.
• Proficiency in data entry and basic mathematics for financial calculations.

Responsibilities

• Screen client applications for benefit programs and assist with applications.
• Enter data, verify information, and perform system checks in databases.
• Provide information and referrals to clients seeking assistance.
• Coordinate appointments and maintain logs of applications and documents.

Job description

Title Description: General Description and Conditions of Work:
This is an office/clerical position. This position works in a service or administrative program area(s) performing the screening of client applications for benefit programs and performs a variety of office and program support. Attends/participates in required trainings as requested. Screens clients for benefit programs; assists clients with applications; researches information; completes data entry and system checks. Provides information to clients seeking assistance and makes referrals. Researches a variety of databases to obtain and /or verify information needed to process applications; maintains logs of client documentation received, and uploads received verifications into workers SharePoint folders. Schedules and coordinates appointments for clients to meet with DSS staff responsible for programs. Maintains accurate logs of all applications received. Maintain, distribute and log all faxes received by agency. Maintain and log all case transfers coming into the agency. Provides assistance in the training of new staff.

Considerable knowledge of: office and administrative practices, policies and procedures as related to assigned program and office support activities; spelling, grammar and punctuation; office terminology, procedures, and equipment technology and office software programs; and mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages of individual’s monthly income. Some knowledge of: elementary bookkeeping and accounting.

Skills in: operating a personal computer, printer, scanner, and a variety of standard office machines and equipment. Some skill in performing basic maintenance of computer system and general office equipment to include some troubleshooting of automation equipment problems.

Demonstrated ability to: organize information and develop/maintain records in various formats; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; follow written and oral instructions; multi-task; establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, customers, other public and private agencies, and the public sometimes under stressful situations; collect and disseminate information; make computations with speed and accuracy; file alphabetically or numerically; proofread; type from clear copy or draft; make minor decisions in accordance to regulations and established practices; advise and interpret policies and procedures in researching and resolving inquiries, requests and complaints. Experience in professional interaction with the general public by phone and in person. Proficient in the use of various computer software programs and data entry. office and administrative practices, policies and procedures as related to assigned program and office support activities; spelling, grammar and punctuation; office terminology, procedures, and equipment technology and office software programs; and mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages to solve mathematical problems.

Minimum Qualifications (Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification): Minimum of a high school diploma supplemented with related clerical or administrative experience in social services or related field OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Special Requirements/Experience: Possess interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution in working with clients, professionals and employees. Desire ability to create forms, charts and graphs and make screening decisions based upon specific criteria; read and interpret documents such as policy manuals, rules and procedures, operating and maintenance instructions.

This investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. Applicants will be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check. Must successfully pass all agency background checks. All offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screening.

All employees must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle in the state of Virginia. Driving record must meet agency requirements.

Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. Providing emergency shelter is mandated and required.

Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information provided. Applications/Resumes must include complete work history.