Bilingual Information and Referral Specialist

The Information and Referral (I&R) Specialist provides initial contact to callers and visitors for information, resources, advocacy and assistance. The Information and Referral Specialist provides screening and referral for all MVES programs by establishing initial need, age and income eligibility. I&R specialists work within the framework of the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) regulations.

Responsibilities:

Essential functions of the position are below. Additional duties may be assigned as required.

• Provide information on community resources and assistance programs, via telephone, mail, online web service, e-mail and in person to older adults, their families, caregivers, MVES staff, and the community-at-large.
• Conduct preliminary eligibility screening and needs assessment and make referrals to the appropriate programs.
• Provide advice and guidance to callers and/or visitors on aging and disability related questions and issues.
• Initiate follow-up with individuals and referral agencies when necessary to ensure that the appropriate information and assistance is provided.
• Maintain accurate consumer information in consumers services database in accordance with Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE) and Mystic Valley Elder Services standards.
• Verify current resources, research new information and update computerized resource databases (both internal and statewide website) to improve access for consumers over 60 and to persons under 60 with a disability.
• Participate in community education and outreach.
• Complete 40 hours of training annually (support provided by supervisor).

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree is preferred from an accredited school in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Human Development, Nursing, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Public Health, Public Policy, or Gerontology plus at least one year of experience in counseling, casework, or working with older adults/adults with disabilities.
• Bilingual preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality while working with sensitive information or in sensitive situations
• Highly resourceful team player, with the ability to work effectively independently or as a team.
• Demonstrates a willingness to take on new tasks with a general attitude that no task is too small, impossible, or cannot be improved
• Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate across all levels, including staff, family and external partners
• Expertise in the following platforms: Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Outlook, Teams, Excel, and PowerPoint), Adobe Pro, Zoom and other web-based applications

Mystic Valley Elder Services is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws