Human Services Caseworker

Position Information

This is a continuous posting.

The New Hanover County Department of Social Services is seeking experienced, detail-oriented, and customer friendly professionals to aid citizens in need of economic assistance in the role of a Human Services Caseworker. Caseworkers are responsible for interviewing clients and collateral contacts using various complex automated systems, explaining the requirements and benefits of all Medicaid programs, Food and Nutrition Services, Child Care subsidy, Work First Family Assistance, Long Term Care and the Federal Marketplace to determine eligibility and/or re-eligibility for the various programs. Duties include researching and evaluating resources; verifying information; processing applications; compiling and entering data into appropriate computer database, to include the NC Fast system; explaining and recommending programs; referring clients to other appropriate agencies or community programs and documenting findings and the status of the case.

Potential Caseworkers may be assigned to work in any of the following: Food and Nutrition services, Family and Children's Medicaid, Adult Medicaid, Work First - Family Assistance, Daycare services, Long Term Care or assist in a unit where knowledge of multiple programs is required.

The Department of Social Services is a part of New Hanover County's consolidated Health and Human services agency, with roughly 500 dedicated professionals seeking to serve the citizens of our county through providing essential human services. The Department is a part of a dynamic, professional county organization with a clear vision as a vibrant, prosperous, diverse coastal community, committed to building a sustainable future for generations to come. Ideal candidates for the Department of Social Services have excellent customer service, organizational and computer skills, the ability to problem solve and make critical decisions and above all, an overwhelming desire to serve the citizens of our county.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, equity, innovation, integrity, stewardship, and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. Supported by the work of our Office of Diversity and Equity, New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, and supports equitable and inclusive policies and growth opportunities. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change in the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living in New Hanover County, NC: New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.
* * * * Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday. On a rotating schedule, certain Tuesdays will be a 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM schedule.
Must be available to report for emergency work assignment during emergency situations.

Salary Information:
Effective July 2023, the hiring range for this position is $44,152 - $59,605.50. Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations. Bilingual candidates are eligible for a differential (5%) when performing Spanish language interpretation during the course of work.

Those who meet qualifications to be hired for the Long Term Care unit will be hired as Zone 3 Caseworkers. The hiring range for these positions will start at $46,841 . Salary will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations.

New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

Please check out our careers page at for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)

• Two (2) years of related experience providing customer service in a setting with a high level of public contact and using a computer for researching, searching, and entering data

What will make your application stand out:

• Previous experience as an Income Maintenance, Economic Services, or Universal Caseworker

• Previous experience interviewing clients or families

• Excellent computer skills sufficient to use NC FAST, NC's online case management system, as well as various other search engines and software programs

• Able to utilize complex automated systems and have knowledge of policies and procedures related to eligibility, determination and re-determination

Priority consideration will be given to those candidates who have completed the Social Services Case Worker Workforce Readiness program through Cape Fear Community College.

Other Information

Opportunity to Telework on a Partial Basis:
Certain casework positions hold the opportunity for full or partial telework. Employees must complete an in office 6-month introductory period before being considered for full or partial telework. When a full or partial telework position becomes available, time spent with department and proven track record will be taken into consideration to determine who is granted full or partial telework. As with all telework opportunities, certain meetings or trainings will require the employee to come into the office. The ideal candidate for a telework position is a self-starter with strong written and verbal skills and solid proficiency in using modern office technology to perform work duties.


Important Applicant Information:
All incoming Human Services Caseworkers will be required to successfully obtain their NC Fast Core Functions and assigned Program Area Level 1 Certifications within their first 90 days of employment with the county.

This is a continuous posting which will be open to receive applications throughout the year. As vacancies occur during various times throughout the year, the applications in the pool will be screened and considered for referral.
Applications will be placed in an active file for a period of 90 days; if you would like to submit a new application, you may do so 90 days from the time you last summited an application.