Intake Specialist

East River Legal Services (ERLS) is hiring an Intake Specialist for our Sioux Falls office, to assist applicants through the application process for free legal services, primarily over the phone. ERLS is a non-profit law firm serving low-income individuals in the 33 eastern South Dakota counties. East River Legal Services exists to better the lives of the over 56,000 people living in poverty in eastern South Dakota. We prioritize services to our most vulnerable citizens, including our community's Veterans, older Americans (60 ), people with disabilities, victims of crime, and all those facing financial insecurity.

Under the supervision of the Intake Attorney, the Intake Specialist renders legal support services including, but not limited to: meeting with and interviewing applicants/potential applicants (in-person, on the phone, or in the community), entering applicant information into an electronic case management system, completing case notes for each intake application, preparing correspondence, conducting document review, copying and scanning records, maintaining applicant files in a confidential and well-organized manner, and communicating with case handlers, as needed. The Intake Specialist is also responsible for welcoming visitors into the office (when needed), answering overflow phone calls, and performing other duties, as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct screening interviews, gather case facts, identify legal problems, and apply East River Legal Services eligibility guidelines and priorities to evaluate the level of assistance that can be offered;
• Refer applicants and advocates to non-legal resources available in the community;
• Perform miscellaneous clerical tasks such as filing, making copies, and distributing mail;
• Conduct legal research in various areas, as assigned;
• Monitor and precisely maintain case status through the electronic case management system;
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism towards applicants, visitors, and other employees;
• Coordinate, conduct, and/or participate in community outreach events;
• Comply with all regulations, grant requirements, and internal operating and personnel policies;
• Perform all receptionist duties, as assigned;
• Other duties, which may be assigned from time to time by the Intake Attorney.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Associate degree or equivalent education and/or experience;
• Ability to work well independently, as well as part of a team;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Superior listening skills;
• Strong interpersonal skills;
• Capacity to learn and adapt;
• Proficient at the use of technology including, but not limited to: word processing, spreadsheets, internet-based programs, database systems, and computer-based legal research;
• Dependability, initiative, motivation, and concern for the interests of the client;
• Detail-oriented, organized, and self-motivated;
• Punctual and excellent attendance record;
• Ability to travel, occasionally overnight;
• Skills and experience in interacting with persons of various social, racial, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.

East River Legal Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Persons of color, Veterans, persons with disabilities, and persons from other traditionally underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Pay: $18.97 - $27.40 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $27