Access to Public Benefits Caseworker

****Job Overview:****The Access to Public Benefits Caseworker will support asylees, victims of crime, and qualified immigrants to ensure comprehensive access to public benefits, legal aid, and other appropriate community resources. The Caseworker will develop initial service plans to match individual client and facilitate appropriate referrals to medical, social, vocational, and financial resources. This position operates under the supervision of the Anti-Trafficking Manager and will collaborate closely with the Outreach Specialist and the Access to Public benefits casework team.

Major Responsibilities:

• Screen clients for benefits eligibility and support with enrollment in public benefits (Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs/RCA, etc.) as well as any necessary advocacy or follow-up with relevant social service agencies.
• Develop individualized service plans for each client and manage client expectations.
• Ensure that clients are provided the basic tools necessary to meet their established short-term goals and objectives.
• Use a trauma-informed approach to support the resilience and recovery of individuals who may have experienced trauma. Maintain a strong understanding of trauma-informed principles and approaches, protection and safeguarding, and mandatory reporting.
• Collaborate with partner organizations to coordinate services.
• Track and manage referrals.
• Maintain accurate records in electronic case files and required databases and consistently ensure the confidentiality of information relevant to cases. Submit required reports and documentation in a timely manner.
• Occasional travel throughout the service delivery area to for client meetings, agency visits, service provider visits etc.
• Report to the Anti-Trafficking Manager and collaborate closely with the Outreach Specialist and Access to Public Benefits casework team. Participate in all program meetings, staff development activities, and fully engage as a member of the IRC Oakland team.
• Provide supervision and support to interns and volunteers.
• Align with all policies, procedures, and protocols of the agency.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

· Undergraduate degree; ideally in Social Work or similar field of study. Comparable related work experience or relevant lived experience may be substituted.

• Experience working with immigrant populations and familiarity with local community resources.

· Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.

· Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task and manage time effectively.

· Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

· Proficiency in Spanish, Dari, Farsi, Pashto, or Mam preferred.

· Excellent communication skills, with fluency in written and spoken English.

· Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle with current insurance, and the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.

*Working Environment:***

• A combination of standard office environment, remote work, and occasional travel for home visits, partner agency meetings, etc. within the service delivery area

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’

Closing date: 21-Jan-23