Hybrid UTILITY CASEWOKER bei Affordable Housing Alliance

JOB TITLE:                            Utility Case Worker 

RESPONSIBLE TO:             Utility Program Manager

FLSA STATUS:                    Non-exempt

This document is intended to describe the general duties required for this position.  It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of duties, skills and responsibilities.

About the Affordable Housing Alliance: 

Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi million dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling.

At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.

Our Core Values

• Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.
• Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.
• Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.
• Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.

JOB SUMMARY:               

The Case Worker assists client either calling or in person to assist with needs, explain programs, and process applications.   Applications are processed in a secure online system and the case worker obtains all supporting documents to complete the applications according to program requirements.  

The Case Worker works in a fast pace environment helping clients in need of utility assistance.  Demonstrate professionalism, care, accuracy and integrity working individually and as part of a team while helping clients and processing applications. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:               

• Carefully review documentation provided by clients to determine program eligibility and contact clients for any required documents that have not been provided.
• Utilize multitasking skills to answer client calls and communicate with clients via telephone, internet and in person and advise of program requirements/application status.  
• Manage a workload of client applications (paper and online) for all utility assistance programs.  Utilize and enter information into computer systems resulting in benefits to clients. 
• Demonstrate empathy, patience and professionalism while reviewing program requirements to help clients determine eligibility for programs. 
• Utilizing program systems, enter initial intake information for clients indicating documents received and then file the documents either electronically or in paper filing system.   
• Process client applications accurately and efficiently. 
• Demonstrate strong sense of teamwork and effective communication skills essential to contribute to a positive work environment. 
• Attend company and utility outreach events outside the office promoting the programs and assisting applicants and receive applications. 
• Perform other duties as assigned and necessary for the administrative functioning of the department

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION

• High School Diploma

• Bi-Lingual Spanish a plus
• Computer proficiency, attention to detail, experience with data entry and ability to learn new systems.   

• One to 2 years of experience preferred in providing intake and referral services, community outreach, or other related social service experiences. 
• Strong interpersonal skills to communicate with clients, some of whom may be in crisis.  Ability to listen respectfully and demonstrate empathy. 

• Strong organizational skills to manage workload, analytical skills, and detail oriented.  Flexibility and ability to change priorities quickly and make decisions.    Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Communication, teamwork and ability to multi-task are essential
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain confidential information.

PLUS

• Have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and understand the barriers and opportunities within these experiences
• Are passionate about using their experiences to support others and advocate for change
• Bring a personal understanding of systemic challenges related to economic insecurity

UPON EMPLOYMENT:

• Ability to pass a drug test. Drug screen does not include THC.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• If required to drive an agency vehicle, NJ driver’s license in good standing with no more than six (6) points.   

Expected annual base salary/hourly range: $18.50 per hour 

Employees are eligible for:

• Medical, dental, & vision insurance
• Participate in the Company’s 401(k) program with employer matching
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays 
• Paid Time Off

Additional compensation: Base salary does not include other forms of compensation or benefits offered in connection with the advertised role.