Sieda Community Action’s Economic and Family Support Services Unit is seeking an Economic Support Specialist I (ESS I). This position is based in the Wapello County office location in Ottumwa. The ESS I, under the direction of the Resource Center Supervisor, is responsible for assisting customers with their economic assistance needs in various Sieda programs. Those programs include: Energy and Water Assistance, crisis utility assistance, resource and referral assistance and special projects throughout the year. This position requires travel to perform duties as needed in all other Sieda Resource Center locations, including; Mahaska, Jefferson, Keokuk, Van Buren, Appanoose and Davis counties. This will require use of your own vehicle with mileage reimbursement for all work-related travel.

This position performs a variety of tasks, requiring several different skills, with time management and prioritization required. Assesses customer needs and collects data to be entered into the client database. Makes appropriate referrals to available resources within the community to assist with identified barriers. Works with local utility companies to advocate on behalf of customers. Arranges approved financial assistance to assist applicants in maintaining needed household utilities such as electricity, propane, natural gas and water. Assists the Resource Center Supervisor in providing assistance in all seven counties in the event of an emergency, staff vacancy or other disruption to normal delivery services.

Qualifications:

High School or equivalent, and a minimum of two years working experience. Must have a valid Iowa Driver license and proof of insurance. Bilingual English/Spanish is preferred, but not required. Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills, must be able to solve practical problems, demonstrate good listening skills, the ability to process information accurately and consistently deliver respectful, effective customer service. Applicants must also have the ability to work in a highly confidential setting and be able to understand, learn, and adapt to new technology.

Employment is contingent upon a criminal background check including a registry check of past/current founded child abuse. This is a Full-Time position with benefits. Work hours for this position are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday – Friday.

The starting wage range for this position is $14.41 – $16.93 hourly. Click here for the full job description.

If interested, please complete your application on Sieda’s online application process. For additional information contact: Jennifer Fleener, Economic and Family Support Services Director, at 641.682.8741. Applications will be accepted until EOB Friday June 2, 2023.

Sieda Community Action is an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefit package including: generous paid holiday, vacation, and sick time; health, life and dental insurance; and IPERS retirement benefits.