The Foraker Group

Job Summary

Job Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Work Services Specialist II

WORK HOURS: 8:00 AM – 5:00 P

SUPERVISOR: Lead Work Services Specialist

TEAM: Work Services

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

GENERAL FUNCTION

Under the direct supervision of the Lead Work Services Specialist, the Work Services Specialist delivers client-facing operations and case management services within the Work Services team. Utilizing a holistic approach, this role guides clients toward economic self-sufficiency. The Work Services Specialist 

collaborates with the Lead Work Services Specialist and Program Manager to execute program policies and procedures.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Client Management & Operational Responsibilities

• Oversee a caseload of Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) clients and maintain individual client files, ensuring accurate, timely data entry and compliance with required reporting standards.
• Manage individual client schedules, conduct individual client meetings, and coordinate program appointments, site visits, and progress reviews.
• Develop, implement, and track individualized Family Self-Sufficiency Plans (FSSP) to guide clients toward sustainable economic independence.
• Assist clients in obtaining, maintaining, and advancing in the workplace until reaching sustainable economic self-sufficiency.   
• Support project goals by delivering direct client services under the direction and mentorship of the Lead Work Services Specialist.
• Actively participate in weekly program staff meetings/trainings, multidisciplinary collaborations, and specialized team meetings as required.

Client Services & Case Management Support

• Apply and champion Nine Star’s core values and Philosophy of Care: Compassion, Excellence, and Collaboration.
• Implement principles of welfare reform and the "Work First" philosophy across all service activities.
• Assess client situations—including financial, employment, educational, family, and support network factors—to identify and mitigate barriers to self-sufficiency.
• Authorize PASS 1 Childcare Assistance according to program policy and procedure.
• Prepare for, review, and actively attend case review hearings alongside clients to support their progress and self-advocacy.
• Work closely with other Nine Star Work Services and Center for Workforce Excellence (CfWE) team members to collaborate and ensure the comprehensive needs of all clients are met.
• Monitor client progress toward employment goals.
• Refer clients to appropriate community resources, services, and advanced training projects.
• Issue Supportive Services according to program policy and procedure.
• Refer clients to Nine Star’s Career Pathway Program through the CfWE to support higher-level skill development and long-term self-sufficiency.
• De-escalate and manage client crisis situations, providing mediation for angry or hostile interactions as necessary.
• Conduct client worksite and home visits as required.

Administrative & Program Support

• Assist in updating Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) to ensure alignment with client and community needs.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.
• KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
• Program Expertise: Strong understanding of program requirements, policies, and operational procedures.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and database applications (e.g., FileMaker Pro).
• Collaboration & Initiative: Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as a constructive team member.
• Communication: Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Organization & Time Management: Strong capacity to prioritize individual caseload tasks, work with minimal supervision, and manage time effectively despite frequent interruptions.
• Professionalism & Adaptability: Proven track record of enthusiasm, dependability, sound judgment, and eagerness to acquire new professional skills. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Education:  Associate Degree in degree in sociology, social work, psychology, human services, counseling, business, or a closely related field is preferred.   

Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience performing professional-level social work, residential treatment casework, or social service case management.

•        Substitution: 
• Post-secondary college coursework from an accredited institution may substitute for the required work experience on a year-for-year basis (e.g., an Associate or Bachelor's degree in a related field satisfies the minimum experience requirement).   

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & APPROVALS

I have read and understand the duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for this position.

Employee Name: ___________________________

Date: ____________