Office on Aging and Disability Services 

35 hours per week

Position Summary:

The Information Specialist provides information and assistance to county residents by conducting initial client intake interviews either by telephone or in-person, resulting in access to available resources/services. The incumbent also develops/provides resources to Office on Aging & Disability Services (OOA&DS)/ADRC (Aging Disabilities Resource Connection) staff. Through continuous networking with consumers and service providers, the Information Specialist obtains updated information about available programs/services for ongoing health and wellness programs.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts initial client/consumer intake interviews (in-person and via phone)
• Enters accurate Information and Assistance inquiry into existing database
• Makes daily calls to clients in the Telephone Reassurance Program and adheres to the no-show policy and procedure
• Provides administrative assistance to the OOA&DS Administrative staff
• Maintains complete, accurate records within approved databases
• Assists in marketing efforts to improve the visibility of the OOA&DS/ADRC
• Participates in job-related educational programs
• Keeps abreast of changes in the field of gerontology/disability and participate in job-related educational programs (as approved)
• Ensures resource development and updated materials are in intake area. Orders/replaces materials as needed
• Effectively communicates with service providers, clients, caregivers, and other community members
• Communicates with elderly and/or those with physical disabilities who may have sensory impairments
• Handles telephone and in-person inquires and conducts initial intake interviews to determine type and level of service need
• Listens actively to determine client/caregiver needs
• Maintains well-documented, accurate client records, and conducts other administrative tasks as assigned
• Maintains updated general knowledge of community organizations and services to address questions from the public/service providers/outside agencies to promote health and wellness programs
• Assists in orientation of new staff regarding functions at Intake Desk
• Continuously develops effective communication skills, and organizational skills
• Understands work schedule may be modified to match program needs. Work hours and coverage may vary to assure essential work functions are covered, including emergency situations which may occur on evenings or weekends
• Adheres to established policies and protocols
• Collaborates with the OOA&DS/ADRC Executive Director, Deputy Director, and direct supervisor for special projects
• Performs other duties as assigned.

 Essential Qualifications:

• Associate's degree in social work or a related field from an accredited college or university
• Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly in English
• Familiarity with Administrative Support and Customer Service functions
• Completion of appropriate OOA&DS/ADRC Intake and Assistance Training
• Current knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, Medicaid Waiver, and non-Medicaid guidelines and funding sources
• Ability to independently commute between office and meeting sites
• Valid New Jersey driver’s license
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Contributes to a harmonious work environment by interacting with the public, all employees, volunteers, and work-related contacts courteously, professionally, sensitively, and tactfully (verbally and in writing) being sure to handle all difficult situations in a private setting (refers to division work rules and professional code of conduct)
• Represents the County of Somerset professionally, respectfully, and harmoniously in all job functions within county buildings and out in the community
• Ability to prioritize tasks/assignments
• Ability to effectively problem solve
• Proficiency in computer use, including (but not limited to) data entry and Microsoft Office Suite.

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field from an accredited college or university
• Demonstrated experience in Administrative Support functions and statistical reporting
• Demonstrated customer service experience
• Ability to become AIRS (Alliance on Information and Referral Systems) certified.