What are the responsibilities and job description for the Energy Educator position at First State Community Action Agency?
PROGRAM: H.E.L.P
TITLE: Assurance 16 Energy Educator RRHACE/SCAP
HOURS: 40
SUPERVISOR: H.E.L.P Program Manager
LOCATION: Georgetown
POSITION: Exempt
Position Summary:
The Energy Educator (EE) plays a vital role in empowering low-income families to reduce their energy burdens and improve their quality of life. This client-focused position involves determining eligibility for energy assistance programs, conducting client intake, building rapport with individuals, providing personalized energy education, conducting pre- and post-energy usage analyses, promoting program participation within targeted communities through outreach efforts, and assisting clients with accessing available resources. The EE will utilize data analysis tools to track program effectiveness and contribute to the development of innovative, cost-efficient energy solutions.
Responsibilities:
LIHEAP and Program Eligibility:
- Determine client eligibility for LIHEAP and other relevant energy assistance programs based on established guidelines and income thresholds.
- Assist clients with completing LIHEAP applications, ensuring all necessary documentation is provided and the application process is smooth and efficient.
- Explain program requirements, benefits, and limitations to clients in a clear and understandable manner.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of LIHEAP regulations and program changes.
- Advocate on behalf of clients to ensure they receive the full benefits they are entitled to.
Energy Education and Outreach:
- Deliver personalized energy education to low-income families, explaining energy-saving strategies and promoting behavior changes that lead to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.
- Conduct pre- and post-energy usage analyses to measure program impact and identify areas for improvement.
- Promote the program and its benefits within targeted high-risk areas, reaching eligible client candidates through outreach efforts and community engagement.
- Research and propose innovative, cost-efficient energy solutions and educational approaches for low-income households.
Data Management and Reporting:
- Utilize the Deloitte and Captain systems to track outcome measures and inputs, contributing to program evaluation and reporting.
- Maintain accurate and organized client data records, files, and reports, ensuring compliance with program requirements.
Client Support and Collaboration:
- Schedule client appointments and manage a daily schedule effectively.
- Provide support services and referrals to clients, connecting them with other resources as needed.
- Collaborate with State Service Centers to facilitate client access to relevant programs and services.
- Conduct energy awareness workshops, advocacy efforts, education sessions, monitoring activities, and other related services for qualified clients.
General Operations:
- Operate standard office equipment, including computers, copiers, and telephone systems.
- Prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines effectively.
- Maintain a professional, client-centric approach in all interactions, demonstrating respect, integrity, and care for each individual served.
- Perform remedial training and educational activities to ensure program effectiveness and client understanding.
- Collaborate with supervisors to identify program needs and implement improvements.
- Perform other duties as assigned, consistent with the program's goals and objectives.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Demonstrated commitment to serving low-income families and a passion for promoting energy efficiency.
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience demonstrating proficiency in relevant skills.
- Successful completion of any required accreditation or certification exams related to energy efficiency.
- Successful completion of any health and safety requirements for energy efficiency education.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including strong grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to analyze client needs and make appropriate behavioral assessments.
- Experience in record-keeping and file management.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Core Competencies:
- Empathy and Compassion: A genuine desire to help individuals and families facing economic hardship. Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and experiences is crucial.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing. This includes active listening, explaining complex information in simple terms, and demonstrating patience. Bilingual skills (especially Spanish) are highly valued in Delaware.
- Strong Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with clients, creating a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, and maintaining professional boundaries are essential.
- Organizational Skills: Managing a high volume of applications, maintaining accurate records, and meeting deadlines require excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Accurately assessing client eligibility based on program guidelines, identifying potential barriers to access, and finding creative solutions to client challenges.
- Knowledge of Community Resources: Familiarity with local social service programs, government agencies, and other resources available to assist clients beyond the agency's offerings.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Humility: Understanding and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of the clients served. Approaching clients with humility and a willingness to learn about their unique circumstances.
- Advocacy Skills: Being able to advocate on behalf of clients to ensure they receive the benefits and services they are entitled to.
Specific Skills and Experience:
- Experience with Intake and Eligibility Determination: Prior experience in a social service setting or working with eligibility criteria for government programs is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of Relevant Programs: Familiarity with programs like LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and other assistance programs available in Delaware.
- Outreach Experience: Ability to develop and implement effective outreach strategies to reach underserved populations in the community.
- Computer Proficiency: Competence in using relevant software and databases for data entry, record keeping, and reporting.
- Data Entry and Management Skills: Accurate and efficient data entry skills are essential for maintaining client records and program statistics.
Personal Attributes:
- Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards are crucial.
- Self-Motivation and Initiative: Ability to work independently and take initiative to improve processes and services.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Being able to adapt to changing program requirements and client needs.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with other staff members and community partners.
- Commitment to the Agency's Mission: A genuine commitment to the mission of the community action agency and its focus on poverty reduction.
Conditions of Employment:
- Upon hiring, candidates must submit a copy of their driving record and proof of vehicle insurance.
- A writing sample and/or computer skills/knowledge test may be requested.
- A background investigation will be conducted.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $40,000