POSTING DATE:  7/23/08

TITLE OF POSITION:  Financial Worker

LOCATION:  Office in Blue Earth, MN

TITLE OF IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:  Financial Assistance Supervisor

2008 ENTRY SALARY:  $13.21/hour

EXEMPT/NONEXEMPT DESIGNATION:  Non-Exempt – hourly position

 

APPLICATION PROCESS:  To request an application packet, interested individuals should contact Linda Mohwinkel at 507-238-4757 OR by email at linda.mohwinkel@fmchs.com.  Minnesota Merit System supervises examination services provided locally.  The examination for this classification will consist of a written test covering the following content areas:  timed name and number comparison test, math, reading comprehension, and chart and graph interpretation.  For more details about the examination process, or to complete an on-line application, contact Merit System directly through their website at http://www.dhs.state.mn.us and click on the following links

 

You can review class specifications at the above website. 

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:  (1) three years of clerical experience and/or experience working with the public or some combination of the two, totaling three years; or (2) two years of clerical experience in a public welfare/human service agency; or (3) two years of study at an accredited two or four-year college or similar institution with emphasis in the behavioral sciences, business or closely related subjects (at least 23 quarter or 16 semester credits); or (4) successful completion of the technical college Public Welfare Financial Worker diploma or AAS degree program; or (5) successful completion of the technical college Public Welfare Financial Worker Certificate Program will substitute for one year of the required experience. 

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:  Candidates who are bi-lingual (Spanish/English) will receive some preference in the final hiring decision.

 

DUTIES:  To interview clients and determine eligibility for programs, interpreting and implementing policy.  To provide case management services for clients including phone contacts and coordinating of service delivery with employment service provider.  Work with community partners to ensure client access to community resources.  Coordinate with coworkers and other unit staff to provide multi-disciplinary client services.  Complete financial intake as assigned to assess current needs of applicants. 

 

This description is intended to describe the kinds of tasks being performed by people assigned to this classification.  The list of duties is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list. 

 

Human Services of Faribault & Martin Counties is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  Members of protected groups are encouraged to apply.

 

MINNESOTA MERIT SYSTEM - POSITION DESCRIPTION

DHS-876a(5-87)

 

PZ-09104-03

HSB Revised 2-97

 

Make NO Entries Here

Allocation:

Date:

By:

 

 

Employee’s Name:  Vacant

 

Appraisal Period:

      /        /                    to             /        /    

 

Agency:  Human Services of Faribault & Martin Counties

 

Division/Unit:  Income Maintenance

 

 

Current Classification Title:  Financial Worker

 

 

Prepared By:  Juanita Krull/Kathy DeNeui

 

 

Previous Incumbent:  Noella Driesen

 

Employee’s Signature:  (This position description reflects my current job)

 

 

Date:

 

Supervisor’s Signature:  (This position description reflects the employee’s current job)

 

 

Date:

 

Agency Director’s Signature:  (I have reviewed this position description)

 

 

Date:

 

POSITION PURPOSE (Essential Functions)

 

To interview clients and determine eligibility for programs, interpreting and implementing policy.  To provide case management services for clients including phone contacts and coordinating of service delivery with employment service provider.  Work with community partners to ensure client access to community resources.  Coordinate with coworkers and other unit staff to provide multi-disciplinary client services.  Complete financial intake as assigned to assess current needs of applicants. 

 

REPORTABILITY

     Reports to:  Financial Assistance Supervisor I (Krull)

 

     Supervises:  Not Applicable

 

DIMENSIONS

     Budget:  Not Applicable

 

     Clientele:  Income Maintenance Clients

 

A

20%

A

I.        Make determination about individual's needs for services through the intake process.

          A.    Client requests are appropriately addressed.

                  1.     Promptly respond to walk‑in clients or phone inquiries.

                  2.     Clients are treated with concern and respect.

                  3.     Clients are assisted in the decisions about the type of assistance that will meet their long range goals.

          B.    Respond to requests for information only.

                  1.     Worker knows and utilizes resources in the Agency and community.

                  2.     Referrals to other units/agencies are appropriate and complete.

                  3.     Worker demonstrates the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

                  4.     Information and referral contacts are documented per agency standards.

          C.    Assure applicants have necessary forms and information.

                 1.      Review Part I of the application for completeness.

                 2.      Assure program brochures are provided.

                 3.      Give the applicant the appropriate forms to complete the application process.

                 4.      Review with applicants verifications needed and forms to be completed prior to their next scheduled interview.

                 5.      Call receptionist to schedule an appointment with appropriate financial worker.

                 6.      Note appointment time and worker on Part I and complete appointment slip for worker assigned.

          D.    Recognize and deal with emergencies according to program   policies.

                  1.     Worker knows and applies criteria for expedited food stamps.

                  2.     Refer clients to appropriate community resources.

                  3.     Pregnant women are identified to clerical for prompt scheduling.

                  4.      Offer Diversionary Assistance, if appropriate.

 

A

25%

A

II.        To assure Income Maintenance program services are made available to each applicant based on their specific need.   

          A.    Interview applicants to obtain factual information.

                  1.     Documentation is written on every page of the CAF II during the initial interview.

                  2.     Worker requests any additional required and appropriate documentation for the program the applicant is applying for and indicates this on MAXIS case notes.

                  3.     Worker will assure client rights and responsibilities are reviewed and provided to applicant.

                  4.     Worker displays knowledge of investigative skills and techniques.

                  5.     Worker handles angry and emotionally upset clients with tact and professionalism.

                  6.     Client surveys indicate worker treats clients with respect and dignity.

          B.    Programs and service information are explained to clients.

                  1.     The managed care concept is presented to clients and they understand how to select a health plan and appropriately access medical services.

                  2.     The EBT overview is presented and client questions are answered.

                  3.     Direct deposit is offered as an option, if appropriate.

                  4.     MFIP program options are explained so clients can make choices about their assistance.

                  5.     Clients are given information about MFIP program requirements with a strong work emphasis.

                  6.     Presentation of PMAP, EBT, and MFIP is documented.

          C.    The application is accurately coded and processed per Federal and State timelines.

                  1.     Part II is loaded onto MAXIS within 2 working days after date of interview and case notes list verifications that need to be provided by the client, if appropriate.

                  2.     Worker correctly and accurately codes STAT and ELIG panels on MAXIS.

                  3.     Approvals, denials, and transfers are processed within program guidelines.

                  4.     Medical Assistance is coded in MMIS concurrently along with cash programs.

                  5.     Supervisor approval or denial is secured on Emergency Assistance applications within 7 working days of application interview.

                  6.     IV-D, EPSDT, ES, and FSET referrals are accurate and completed within 2 days of case approval to appropriate agency/unit.

                  7.     Clients are provided one on one orientation or referred to group orientation within 30 days.

          D.    Case notes on MAXIS are fully utilized.

                  1.     Disposition of the case is recorded including program eligibility, date of grants and any retro assistance granted.

                  2.     Reason for action on closings and denial is well documented.

                  3.     Worker assures appropriate notices are generated by MAXIS.

                  4.     Worker comments are added to notes, when appropriate.

                  5.     Use of FIAT for automated programs is explained thoroughly.

                  6.     Pertinent case facts are noted in case notes narrative.

 

A

25%

A

III.       The ongoing caseload is monitored and maintained to assure timely, accurate payments and appropriate services to clients within County, State and Federal standards and guidelines.

          A.    Case status is monitored including HRF, Change Report Form, and Addendums.

                  1.     Cases with STAT edits listed on DAIL DAIL are completed to assure correct and timely monthly benefits are issued.

                  2.     HRF data is loaded into MAXIS within 3 working days of date stamp into agency.

                  3.     Eligibility reviews are completed within 30 days.

                  4.     Utilizes time well and is able to set priorities in work.

                  5.     Information obtained from HRF's, Change Reports and/or Addendums is acted on so correct and timely monthly benefits are issued.

                  6.     Phone calls are returned within 24 hours.

                  7.     Requests for case transfers are completed within 5 days.

                  8.     Sanctions are correctly imposed, when appropriate and documented in case notes.

          B.    Worker appropriately responds to IEVS Report, Error Reports and Appeal Processes.

                  1.     IEVS matches are resolved and documented per Federal guidelines.

                  2.     Error Reports are reviewed and resolved to assure correct service delivery.

                  3.     Reconciliation Reports/discrepancy reports are dealt with within DHS established guidelines.

                  4.     Information messages from DAIL DAIL/Worker Message sheets are dealt with within 30 days.

                  5.     MMIS messages are resolved prior to 10 day cutoff.

                  6.     Appeal summaries are complete, concise, timely and documented on case notes on MAXIS.

                  7.     Preparation for appeals is thorough and facts are appropriately presented at hearings.

                  8.     Outcome of appeal is implemented and well documented in case notes on MAXIS.

          C.    Initial Assessments are completed and Job Search plan and/or employment plan is developed.

                  1.     The initial assessment appointment is scheduled within 30 days of the determination of MFIP eligibility.

                  2.     Tier II and Tier III participants are identified and referred to the employment services provider.

                  3.     MIS forms are accurately completed and routed to MVAC on a timely basis.

                  4.     Financial Workers partner with clients to develop an 8 week job search support plan or employment plan.

                  5.     The need for support services is assessed and appropriate action taken.

                  6.     Plans are monitored through weekly logs and client contacts.

          D.    Case work reflects appropriate worker knowledge, ability and skill.

                  1.     Consistently interprets and applies current IM policy.

                  2.     Resolves case questions by proper utilization of Policy and MAXIS manuals.

                  3.     Appropriately utilizes supervisor, co-workers, and MAXIS/MMIS help desk..

                  4.     Financial worker learns from and consistently applies results from findings.

 

B

10%

B

IV.      To establish collaborative relationships with vendors, providers and other county agencies in the state.

          A.    Communicate with vendors and providers regarding I.M. policy and procedures.

                  1.     Worker displays ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

                  2.     Worker establishes and maintains effective working relationships with vendors and providers.

          B.      Provide public information and education to expand awareness of the I.M. programs.

                  1.     Worker appropriately responds to requests for Income Maintenance program information.

                  2.     Worker maintains resources in a manner that allows dissemination of current information when answering inquiries.

          C.    Partnership with employment services providers is maintained.

                  1.     Job Search Support Plans and Employment Plans are provided to the employment services provider for signature.

                  2.     Cases are reviewed through case consultation and/or the CAP process when referred for services and at least annually on-going.

 

B

15%

B

V.      Participates and plans in implementation of unit and agency goals, policy and procedures.

          A.    Provide input into the development and evaluation of agency policy, programs and procedures.

                  1.     Worker willingly shares ideas and suggestions for changes.

                  2.     Worker responds to requests for input with constructive alternatives.

          B.    Participates in and contributes to required meetings, ie: unit, individual conferences and All Agency Meetings.

                  1.     Ownership is assumed for decisions reached by work unit.

                  2.     IC time with supervisor is utilized to discuss work flow, problem cases, individual needs and issues which impact service delivery.

                  3.     Worker provides ideas for improvement of work methods.

                  4.     Worker readily identifies program training needs and assists in planning for uses of in‑services, education and conferences to meet training needs.

                  5.     Agency safety policies are followed, general housekeeping of work area is maintained and any safety issues or concerns are reported for correction or elimination.

          C.    Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers.

                  1.     Actively work as part of the team, helping other employees when needed.

                  2.     Resolves conflict with other members in an effective manner.

                  3.     Willingly completes all other activities/work as assigned.

          D.    Fully utilizes the Client Assistance Process.

                  1.     Readily identify clients with multiple service needs.

                  2.     Complete required HSB forms to move client to CAP.

                  3.     Attendance at CAP is a priority for worker.

                  4.     Research and case preparation is completed prior to scheduled CAP.

                  5.     Worker completes tasks as assigned through the CAP within specified timeframes.

 

A

5%

B

VI.      To communicate effectively with the end result of avoiding conflict, when possible, and resolving conflict constructively, when it develops.

          A.    Client interactions are handled professionally.

                  1.             Conflicts are resolved at the lowest level possible.

                  2.             Supervisor is made aware of difficult situations that may escalate.

                  3.             Clients are treated with respect.

          B.    Staff interactions, both within and outside the agency, are handled professionally.

                  1.             Positive communication methods are utilized.

                  2.             Positive interactions benefit integrated service delivery.

                  3.             If conflict situations develop, they are resolved in a respectful and timely manner.

                  4.             Supervisor is made aware of difficult situations that may escalate.

 

 

III.  Employee’s Name:  Vacant

DHS-876c(5-87)

 

PZ-09106-04

 

HSB Rev. 2-97

 

     1.   Machines or equipment used regularly in this position:

           Calculator, Telephone, Personal Computer

 

     2.   Freedom to act and problem solving:

           Financial Worker investigates client situation, makes referrals, and takes appropriate case actions as per federal and state regulations.  Worker consults with the Financial Assistance Supervisor by exception and prior to EA approval.  Caseload work is monitored through weekly individual conferences and semi-annual performance reviews.  Program Manager is apprised of situations that may require Director, Executive Committee and/or HSB action.

 

     3.   Who reviews your work?

           Financial Assistance Supervisor, DHS Quality Control

 

     4.   Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

           Knowledge of Income Maintenance Programs, policies and procedures, community and agency resources, and human behavior.  Interviewing skills and techniques.  Ability to organize work assignments, make decisions, accept and profit from supervision, develop good working relationships, understand and follow written and verbal communication.  Communicate in verbal and written form, accurately and rapidly process detailed information, and to display flexibility in adjusting to program changes.

 

     5.   (TO BE COMPLETED BY SUPERVISOR)

           Typing is:            _ essential        X incidental to this position and requires  30  % of employee’s time.

 

           Shorthand is:      _ essential        _ incidental to this position and requires      % of employee’s time.

 

     6.   Employee’s comments:

          

 

     7.   Supervisor’s comments:

          

 

Physical Demands of this Position:  Frequently sitting, talking, hearing, using near vision, and typing.  Occasionally standing, walking, and using far vision.  Rarely lifting up to 10 pounds, carrying, and driving/riding.

 

Mental Demands of this Position:  Frequently problem-solve, make decisions, use supervision, interpret data, organize, write, plan, work with others, use creativity in problem solving, learn and relearn complex changing policy material and apply policy to individual situations.  Occasionally work alone.

 

Working Conditions of this Position:  Frequently indoors and with public contact.  Rarely outdoors, in high or cold temperatures, loud noises, or fumes.