Social Services Specialist/SPE

Social Services Specialist / SPE

Starting Salary: USD $44,743.00/Yr.

This is professional work in providing services to primary and secondary victims of crime. Work requires a knowledge of varied benefits, social services, and public assistance-related federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations and the ability to research, analyze, interpret and apply provisions of such laws, rules and regulations. Contacts require skills in understanding and/or supporting people; these skills are important in providing necessary services. Skills of persuasiveness or assertiveness, as well as a sensitivity to others' point of view, are often required to influence behavior, change an opinion, or turn a situation around. The work is semi-routine in that tasks are covered by standard practices and procedures, but some latitude is permitted to consider the most appropriate practice or procedure to follow; however, the work also involves differing situations requiring comparison of problem elements to reference points within one's own experience and exercise of judgment to match the prior decision. 

Work is performed primarily in an office environment though the employee may be required to make field visits to victims in order to provide or ascertain services needed. The physical demands consist mainly of sitting at a work station for extended periods of time, using standard office equipment on an ongoing basis, occasionally lifting and moving light objects, and visiting victims. Operates standard office equipment such as a personal computer, copier, and fax machine. The work is performed under general supervision where the work assignments are subject to established procedures and practices, and is reviewed in progress and upon completion for adherence to proper procedures.

Examples of Work

• Interviews victims and provides direct support services including crisis intervention
• Coordinates services with law enforcement officers
• Provides information and referral through in-person contact with victims
• Reviews police arrest and information reports to identify clients
• Assists clients with filing victim compensation claims
• Provides criminal justice advocacy during the criminal justice process
• Conducts follow-up contacts to provide support
• Presents to public forums to identify crime victims and provide or refer them to services
• Compiles position-related data and prepares reports
• Responds to inquiries from victims, the general public, and private industry regarding available social services and public assistance programs
• Prepares correspondence and position-related reports as required
• Establishes and maintains records, files, and reports
• Operates standard office equipment, including a computer, to reach and serve victims of crime
• Participates in training to enhance services to victims
• Performs related work as required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local services and public assistance programs.
• Knowledge of interviewing and counseling techniques, methods, and procedures.
• Knowledge of medical and legal terminology.
• Skill in interviewing and data-gathering techniques.
• Skill in researching, analyzing, interpreting and applying social services or public assistance related federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations.
• Ability to assess and determine the needs of victims and match such needs to federal, state, and local social services and public assistance programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to develop and make presentations to large groups.
• Ability to establish and maintain records.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
• Ability to compile and interpret statistical data.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships.
• Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and related software applications.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Open Requirements/Supplemental Information

A four-year combination of education, training, or experience in determining eligibility for and providing social services or public assistance-related programs or a related field.

• FL Class E Driver's License is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.
• Must meet standards required to obtain a City of Jacksonville driver's certification.