Program Specialist - Energy Services

The Program Specialist works with clients to gather and confirm information on their application, enters client data into a state software program, and effectively communicates with utility companies to provide complete and accurate information needed to process payments. This position assists the Operations Manager in reviewing applications for quality assurance, supports Outreach Specialists in attending community events and providing energy education, and provides backup office coverage as needed.

Candidates must submit applications by 08/20 to be considered for first-round interviews.

Minimum Qualifications

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for this position.

Education and/or Experience:

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Three years of experience working with adults to obtain information required in determining program eligibility for Social Service/Human Service Programs.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Driver qualifications are required for this position. Valid driver license, insured vehicle available for use on the job, and a satisfactory drive record for the previous three years are required.
• Candidate must pass a comprehensive MWVCAA background screening prior to employment.
• Candidate must pass pre-employment and random drug/alcohol screenings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated experience working within databases and Microsoft Office required.
• Pays attention to detail and carefully reviews work for inaccuracies.
• Effectively communicates in both oral and written form.
• Ability to clearly explain procedures and eligibility requirements to clients.
• Demonstrates tact, diplomacy and empathy when communicating with those in stressful conditions.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with team members, clients and community partners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required.

• Reviews provided documents to determine household eligibility for various levels of assistance.
• Follows up with clients to gather and verify information as needed.
• Coordinates and monitors internal application components to ensure appropriate program direction and compliance with program standards.
• Effectively presents information one-on-one and in small group situations to employees and clients.
• Works within Oregon OPUS database to create client files and verify client information needed to determine eligibility.
• Communicates payment commitments to the utility companies, sending complete and accurate documentation in communications.
• Works with other members of the Energy Services team to process applications, communicate pertinent information, problem-solve common roadblocks, and communicate with clients as needed.
• Validates all steps of the eligibility process and promptly corrects clerical or financial errors, communicating issues and resolutions to all appropriate parties.
• Provides backup and office coverage as needed.
• Effectively utilizes time to complete applications. Assists coworkers as able.
• Maintains organized and accurate documentation in accordance with State and Federal regulations and guidelines.
• Attends relevant community events and meetings. Provides information to the public regarding program services, eligibility requirements, and energy-saving tips.
• Meets with potential clients and walks through the eligibility process with them, clearly outlining requirements and addressing any client questions as they occur.
• Distributes Energy Assistance Program information to potential clients and community partners.
• Respects the confidentiality of all agency, program, coworker and client information.

There are no supervisory duties in this position.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust.
• Occasional driving in all weather conditions.
• Occasionally lift up to 25.
• Manual dexterity for handling office.
• Maintains calm dispositions and regulates emotions when clients, staff, or others may become escalated.
• Requires utilizing problem-solving skills in order to navigate regular deadlines, under the direction of a supervisor.

Indoor, office work environment with frequent interruptions and demands. Working with coworkers/clients over the phone and in-person. Occasional noise and distractions in workspaces. Exposure to weather conditions while conducting community outreach activities.

MWVCAA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, age, veterans, and people with disabilities or any other protected category. We welcome all people to join us in achieving our Mission. If you require any assistance in the application process, or reasonable accommodations to perform the essential duties of the position, please notify a member of our team at (503) 585-6232.

This is a partial list of essential duties and responsibilities. To review the full job description, download below.