Economic Support Specialist

Thank you for your interest in joining Door County Government! Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year-round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula. Within the County organization, the Health & Human Services Economic Support Division administers public assistance programs as part of the Bay Lake Consortium. The division helps individuals and families with limited income access essential benefits such as FoodShare, Medicaid/BadgerCare, and Wisconsin Shares child care assistance. Through efficient eligibility determination and customer support, Economic Support helps community members meet basic needs and maintain stability. To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.

Job Summary:

The Economic Support Specialist determines initial and ongoing eligibility for public assistance programs, including Medical Assistance, BadgerCare Plus, Food Share, Child Care Subsidies, and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). This role supports individuals and families by facilitating access to financial resources, promoting self-sufficiency, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local program regulations through direct service and collaborative partnerships. Essential Duties & Responsibilities 1. Interview applicants and participants to assess eligibility for programs including Medicaid, BadgerCare Plus, Food Share, Child Care, and PPACA-related benefits through in-person, telephone, and Call Center settings. 2. Evaluate personal and financial information to determine eligibility and accurately enter and maintain data in CARES and other electronic systems, ensuring compliance with documentation standards. 3. Assist applicants in identifying and accessing community services that support basic needs and self-sufficiency, providing referrals and resource navigation. 4. Research, interpret, and apply federal, state, and local policies; explain regulations, rights, and responsibilities to applicants and participants in an accessible manner. 5. Prepare and submit documentation for administrative fair hearings; provide testimony as needed to support participant rights and departmental decisions. 6. Investigate allegations of welfare fraud, compile evidence, collaborate with supervisors and specialists, and participate in legal proceedings if required. 7. Perform client intake, registration, and data gathering functions to support service delivery and state reporting requirements. 8. Participate in specialty assignments within the Bay Lake Income Maintenance Consortium, including staffing the Call Information Center. 9. Maintain detailed case notes and documentation of eligibility decisions, changes, and reviews in accordance with program requirements and confidentiality standards. 10. Attend all agency and consortium meetings, mandatory training sessions, and supervision meetings to ensure continuous professional development and program compliance. 11. Adhere to confidentiality, information security, and privacy regulations per state, federal, and departmental guidelines.

Key Competencies & Skills Basic Math Computation:

Accurately performs fundamental mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages.

Critical Thinking:

Applies policy knowledge to assess eligibility cases and resolve discrepancies independently.

Communication:

Clearly explains complex program requirements to diverse populations, adjusting approach to ensure understanding.

Problem Solving:

Identifies barriers to self-sufficiency and formulates solutions using available resources and referrals.

Collaboration:

Works effectively with internal teams, consortium partners, and external service agencies to support client needs.

Technical Proficiency:

Utilizes CARES, Microsoft Office applications, and other data systems accurately to manage caseloads. Attention to

Detail:

Ensures accurate data entry, thorough documentation, and compliance with multiple program standards.

Conflict Resolution:

Employs tact and professionalism in de-escalating conflicts with clients and resolving complaints. Required Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required. Two (2) or more years of experience in social/human services, eligibility determination, case management, or a related public service field strongly preferred. Must obtain Economic Support Specialist certification within six (6) months of hire. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. Preferred Education & Experience Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Financial Planning, or a related field. Previous experience in public sector eligibility programs or working within a multi-county consortium environment. Physical & Work Environment Requirements Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment, with extended periods seated at a desk using a computer and telephone. Regular tasks involve talking, hearing, and using close and distant vision. Occasional lifting of materials up to 10 pounds may be required. Potential exists for interaction with individuals under stress, requiring the ability to manage emotionally charged situations safely and professionally. Some travel to satellite offices such as the Aging and Disability Resource Center may be required. Emergency Response Statement In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs. Equal Opportunity Statement Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Disclaimer The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Questions about the position or hiring process? Contact Door County Human Resources at hr@co.door.wi.gov (Mon-Thurs 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.) In compliance with federal and state laws, if you require reasonable accommodation during any part of the application or selection process due to a disability, please notify Human Resources. What to

Expect:

Application Timeline Position is open until filled — apply today. Application materials may be reviewed as they are received. Selection Process Applicants may be evaluated through one or more of the following: Review of application materials Structured interview(s) Skills tests, assessments, or work samples Other job-related evaluation methods as applicable to the position Pre-Employment Requirements Final candidate(s) may be subject to: Reference check(s) Background check Job-related pre-employment screening, license and credential verification Door County is committed to a fair, consistent, and job-related hiring process. Thank you for your interest in this position with Door County. We look forward to reviewing your application.