Public Assistance Caseworker

Knox County, Ohio; Mount Vernon (OH); On-site; USD 35,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous leave time

Public Student Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

Knox County Job & Family Services in Mount Vernon, Ohio is seeking an Eligibility Referral Specialist 2 (ERS2) to guide individuals through the public assistance process. You will determine financial eligibility, connect recipients to essential services, and ensure continued access to support.

Responsibilities include conducting interviews (phone or in-person), managing cases, gathering documentation, explaining benefits, and collaborating with community resources.

Qualifications

• One year of experience as an Eligibility Referral Specialist 1 or equivalent; or two courses or one year in behavioral/social sciences, customer service, and related topics.
• High school diploma or equivalent; or education/experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications.
• Must possess a valid Ohio Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record.
• Must pass a background check for FTI.

Responsibilities

• Interview clients by phone or in person to assess eligibility for assistance programs.
• Manage and maintain cases with accuracy and efficiency.
• Gather documentation, verify financial information, and explain program benefits.
• Coordinate with community resources and agencies to meet client needs.
• Advocate to ensure clients receive appropriate assistance.
• Prepare reports, process applications, and update case information.

Skills

Interviewing

Case management

Documentation

Communication

Analytical skills

Advocacy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Driver's license

Job description

Join Our Team – Make a Difference in Your Community!

The Knox County Job & Family Services Public Assistance Division is seeking candidates for an Eligibility Referral Specialist 2 (Public Assistance Caseworker). This is a full-time opportunity with normal working hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Starting pay is $19.58 per hour and Knox County offers robust benefits including generous leave time and Public Student Loan Forgiveness.

Why Work with Us?

At Knox County Job & Family Services, we are dedicated to strengthening our community by helping individuals and families access critical public assistance programs. If you are enthusiastic about making a difference and enjoy a fast-paced, people-focused work environment, we would love to have you on our team!

Essential Functions

As an Eligibility Referral Specialist 2 (ERS2), you will play a key role in guiding individuals through the public assistance process. You will determine financial eligibility, connect recipients to essential services, and ensure continued access to the support they need.

• Conduct interviews (phone or in-person) to assess eligibility for assistance programs.
• Manage and maintain cases with accuracy and efficiency.
• Gather necessary documentation, verify financial information, and explain program benefits.
• Work closely with community resources and agencies to meet client needs.
• Advocate for individuals and families by ensuring they receive the right assistance.
• Prepare reports, process applications, and handle case updates.
• A full position description is available upon request.

Job Standards

Minimum Qualifications:

One year of experience as an Eligibility Referral Specialist 1 or Unit Support Worker 2; or completion of two courses or one year of experience in behavioral science, social science or customer services techniques; one course or six months experience in business mathematics, one course or six months experience in business English, one course or six months experience in interviewing techniques, and one course or six months experience in typing, keyboarding or word processing; plus, a high school diploma or equivalent; or education, training and/or experience in an amount equal to the Minimum Qualifications stated above.

Must possess a valid Ohio Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record.

Must be able to pass background check for FTI.

Who We Are Looking For:

Problem-solvers who thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Strong communicators who can explain complex policies in a clear, compassionate manner.

Detail-oriented individuals with excellent organizational and analytical skills.

Candidates with experience in behavioral/social sciences, customer service, or a related field.

Stable full-time position with competitive pay

Supportive team environment with professional growth opportunities

Meaningful work that directly impacts your community

Work shifts are Monday through Friday

Paid holidays

Be part of a team that changes lives every day!