Program Support Specialist, MFIP at CLUES in Minneapolis, MN

POSITION SUMMARY

The Program Support Specialist, MFIP (specialist) provides program and administrative support to participants enrolled in the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP). The Specialist assists with participant intake and orientation, provides required forms and program information, coordinates approved support services such as gas cards and bus passes, and maintains accurate documentation and data in WF1. The Specialist works closely with Employment Coaches and MFIP staff to support participant needs and ensure services are provided in accordance with Hennepin County requirements, MFIP regulations, and CLUES policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Effective Participant Support & Program Assistance

• Provide administrative support to Employment Coaches who work with the MFIP program such as data entry, printing and copying, mailing and emailing, filing, note taking, and record keeping utilizing Workforce One (and other data platforms).
• Support MFIP walk-in days by assisting participants with filling out forms, manage traffic flow, and providing support to Employment Coaches.
• Provide OV orientation to participants using our PowerPoint presentation platform in all languages, utilizing translation or interpretation services when the participant’s preferred language differs from the staff member’s language.
• Collaborate with Employment Coaches to provide participants with transportation assistance, such as gas cards and bus passes, to help address transportation barriers and support their participation in employment and program activities.
• Maintain accurate records and track all required forms and documentation associated with these support services. Enter and maintain all required service data and documentation in WF1 in a timely and accurate manner.
• Provide participants with all required intake forms and ensure that they understand which forms they need to complete and sign to enroll in the MFIP program.
• Work closely with Employment Coaches to facilitate program orientation and workshops.
• Assist walk-in MFIP participants, when needed and appropriate.
• Work with Job Developer to develop employment opportunities, job internships, job shadowing opportunities, and other job experiences for program participants as well as develop and maintain relationships with employers.
• Facilitate workshops designed to equip participants with job search tools that lead to successful job placement (including facilitating in client’s language for bilingual Employment Coaches).
• Assess and implement changes that directly affect a participant's ability to obtain and maintain stable employment.

Documentation, Data Entry, and Reporting

• Document participant’s activities and progress achieved by using Workforce One and case notes. (duplicate)
• Case note any participant contact within 24 hours of event.
• Collect and maintain all necessary participant data and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
• Maintain participant confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, agency policies and other applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Provide accurate and timely reports as required; follow-up to ensure the achievement of assigned program outcomes.
• Promote integration of services within CLUES. Services may include, but are not limited to: Education, Income Supports, Financial Empowerment, Mental Health, Chemical Health, Community Health, and Family Services.
• Regularly update supervisor and management on program statistics, as directed.

Other Job Duties

• Promote the mission, operating values, and services of CLUES within the community.
• Provide organization-wide support and carry out other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties or tasks may be assigned as required. Management may modify, change, or add to the duties of this description at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS

• This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Education, Experience, and Key Abilities

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Customer service experience required, with strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Experience working with diverse populations
• At least 1 year of case management experience required.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, Somali, Russian, or Dari preferred.
• Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) certified a plus.
• Experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse individuals in a service-oriented environment required.
• Demonstrated success in independently taking on tasks and working as a self-starter.
• Excellent analytical, organizational and time management skills.
• Demonstrated accuracy with details.
• Demonstrated commitment to high standards of quality.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with peers.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to exercise a high level of tact and discretion in both internal and external interactions.
• Ability to work effectively in a complex organization and fast-paced environment.
• Ability to apply strategic and creative thinking, while being persistent, motivated, and energetic.
• Genuine commitment to the mission, values, and work of CLUES with ability to articulate the mission persuasively to diverse audiences.

Language Skills

• Effective communication in English, both verbally and in writing, required.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, Somali, Russian, or Dari preferred.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret written materials, maintain accurate documentation, and respond appropriately to questions and requests.

Transportation

• Must have a reliable motor vehicle for independent transportation, valid driver’s license, proof of automotive insurance, and maintain a good driving record. Must submit to and pass annual recertification of compliance with CLUES Automobile and Transportation Policy and driving record check.

Reasoning Ability

• Ability to solve practical problems and interpret instructions in various forms.

Computer Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other common software (e.g., database, reporting, client management systems, etc.).
• Experience working with Workforce One, MAXIS, ECF, and MEC2 computer systems preferred.
• Must be willing to attend training to advance technical skills and maintain appropriate skill levels to perform job duties.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Background check

• Must pass a criminal background check and driving record check. As a condition of continued employment, staff person may be required to submit to periodic re-verification of these, and additional background checks.