Fuel Assistance Generalist

SUMMARY

Process and certify new and existing applications for the Fuel Assistance, Energy, and associated programs in accordance with federal and state funding requirements and SMOC policies and procedures. The program is seasonal and there is moratorium on usage of time-off during the period of November 15 to March 15 each year.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review/process new applications and re-certs (ARF’s) to determine eligibility/ineligibility in accordance with state policies/regulations and within prescribed state time frames
• Interview clients and collect new applications.
• Enter applicable information into the computer system.
• Gather required forms and documentation; maintain client file.
• Review and process all information for completeness to meet program requirements/guidelines.
• Process incomplete/denial letters for clients in accordance to state policies.
• Process and send vendor and client notices.
• Post payments.
• Make home visits if necessary.
• Respond to client inquiries via telephone; refer clients as appropriate.
• Provide coverage for the front desk receptionist as needed.
• Attend & participate in scheduled state meetings as well as in outreach activities.
• Engage all clients by understanding and addressing their needs whether within or outside the scope of work.
• Attend & participate in team meetings as requested and communicate effectively with clients and staff in other areas.
• Maintain confidentiality of client, employee and agency information in accordance with federal and state laws and funder requirements.
• Ensure compliance with program/department, agency and/or funder requirements, as well as, SMOC policies & procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma or equivalent; some college work or degree preferred
• Minimum of 1 year prior office experience preferably with a focus in accounts payable or other related office/accounting activities
• Hands-on experience with computers and MS Office
• Good verbal communication skills with a pleasant phone manner; team player
• Strong organizational skills, detail orientation
• Flexibility with seasonal nature of program
• Prior experience with low income or homeless individuals helpful.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP

• Directly reports to Fuel Director
• Indirectly reports to None.
• Direct reports of this position are None. 
• Indirect reports of this position are None.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Mobility to use office machines, sitting, standing 
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. 
• Ability to drive a vehicle.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This is a busy office setting with a high volume of traffic, which may be noisy and distracting at times. Most of the work takes place at a desk often in front of a computer. Cubical limits staff person to a minimum amount of privacy especially when dealing with clients when on the phone or in person requiring sensitivity to the work environment to protect client confidentiality. Some local travel may be required. As part of the responsibilities of this position, the Fuel Assistance Generalist will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. A successful background check is required.