What are the responsibilities and job description for the Client Resources Specialist position at Sparc?
Position Summary:
The Client Resources Specialist is responsible for supporting Sparc’s financial and administrative operations by managing client benefits and related services. This includes facilitating and maintaining access to Social Security, Medicaid, SNAP, Housing, and other essential benefits. The role ensures accurate documentation, regulatory compliance, and efficient operations while serving as a key liaison between Sparc, government agencies, guardians, and other stakeholders. The position requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively within a team-oriented environment.
Universal Competencies:
Universal competencies are competency requirements that apply to all Sparc positions (Exempt & Non-Exempt, Part-time, Full-time, PRN, Supervisory and Non-Supervisory). Universal Competencies support our mission and are consistent with Sparc’s core values; they are:
Collaboration/Positive Impact: Ability to work with a variety of individuals and teams in a constructive and civil manner, utilizing existing resources, training, and learning to achieve or exceed desired outcomes while integrating Sparc’s core values to
“TEACH, COACH, and MENTOR.”
Proficiency Levels & Typical Behaviors: Working
- Shares appropriate information/feedback openly, professionally, and respectfully.
- Models and demonstrates open, respectful, accepting, and supportive behaviors with team members.
- Maintains productive work relationships while considering multiple perspectives and utilizing effective conflict resolution practices.
- Aligns expectations for self and team to achieve work objectives and overcome obstacles.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ability to work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive and respectful manner while appreciating the unique contribution of an inclusive workforce that brings together the talents of people across multiple identities.
Proficiency Levels & Typical Behaviors: Working
- Maintains productive working relationships while considering multiple perspectives.
- Demonstrates awareness of one’s own and others’ social identities (e.g., race, gender, disability status, religion, etc.), including the value and relevance of diverse identities in the workplace.
- Resolves cross-cultural conflicts effectively.
- Ability to articulate Sparc’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the reasons for its importance.
- Engages in personal and professional development on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Service Excellence/Customer Focus: Ability to meet or exceed service needs and expectations of persons served and provide excellent service in a direct or indirect manner. Ability to effectively transmit and interpret information through appropriate communication with internal and external constituents, stakeholders, and the community.
Proficiency Levels & Typical Behaviors: Working
- Enhances service by seeking ways to add value to client interactions and services.
- Demonstrates sincere concern and takes responsibility when receiving internal and external complaints, even if the source of the problem lies elsewhere.
- Listens to feedback without defensiveness and uses feedback to enhance communication effectiveness.
- Communicates in alternative ways to accommodate different listeners.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Benefits Management:
Oversee and manage Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP benefits for individuals supported by Sparc. This includes completing applications for new benefits, processing redeterminations of eligibility, and maintaining a reliable system for tracking upcoming redetermination deadlines to ensure uninterrupted services. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Housing Coordination:
Manage client housing leases and maintain professional, ongoing communication with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure compliance with housing requirements and continued eligibility. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Policy and Compliance Oversight:
Compile and maintain program policies and procedures to ensure they align with the standards set by regulatory and accreditation agencies. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Reporting:
Meet reporting deadlines related to agency benefits and client financial records. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- ABLE Account Administration:
Apply for and manage Illinois ABLE accounts for eligible clients. Notify the Finance Director when funds should be transferred from a Sparc-managed client trust account to an Illinois ABLE account, ensuring proper recordkeeping and account usage. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Stakeholder Communication:
Act as a liaison with agencies, funding representatives, and guardians regarding client benefits, including Social Security, Medicaid, SNAP, and housing. Provide support, information, and documentation to ensure clear communication and advocacy on behalf of clients. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Records and Documentation:
Develop, organize, and maintain accurate records and reports for each client, including Medicaid and SNAP documentation, Social Security data, and monthly reporting. Ensure that records are up-to-date and securely maintained in accordance with Sparc’s confidentiality policies. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Account Reconciliation:
Reconcile checking accounts for Intermittent CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) participants whose finances are managed by Sparc. Identify and report any irregularities or concerns directly to the Finance Director. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Departmental Support:
Coordinate and facilitate benefit-related functions on behalf of the Finance Director, including scheduling, communication, and documentation. Ensure information is organized and easily accessible to support smooth department operations. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Administrative Assistance:
Operate computers and office equipment to complete administrative tasks such as typing, copying, filing, and preparing reports. Draft letters, memos, and other written communication as directed by the Finance Director. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Policy Adherence:
Comply with all Sparc policies and procedures, including those related to confidentiality, safety, and professional conduct. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Meetings and Training:
Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and other professional development activities as required by the agency. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Mission Driven: Performs day-to-day duties in a manner that reflects Sparc’s mission and core values by being actively involved in the programs and the people that Sparc programs support. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
- Additional Duties: Performs other agency-related duties as assigned or required reasonably within the scope of the above-mentioned duties. “Related duties as assigned” are duties that may not be listed explicitly in the class specification or position description but are duties within the general, occupational series, and responsibility level typically associated with the employee’s class of work. (Essential and Non-Modifiable)
Qualifications:
Education & Experience
- Associate’s Degree is required; a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field is preferred.
- At least two (2) years of administrative or office-based experience preferred.
- Previous experience working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, mental health challenges and/or elderly populations is preferred.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with various computer operating systems is required; database experience is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of basic mathematics, alphanumeric filing systems, and general office practices required.
- Must be detail-oriented, have excellent time management and organizational skills, and can meet strict deadlines.
- Must demonstrate strong analytical thinking and problem-solving techniques.
- Competence in operating standard office equipment.
Other Requirements
- A minimum one (1) year of work experience in an independent/autonomous role with minimal is required.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must attend and satisfactorily complete all training requirements and mandatory staff meetings.
- Must have a current, valid Illinois Driver’s License and proof of automobile insurance.
- Must possess reliable transportation.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule as needed.
- Attend and satisfactorily complete all training requirements and mandatory staff meetings.
- Must be physically capable of assisting with individual support needs in emergencies, including the ability to lift and transfer supported individuals.
Benefits:
- Annual Salary Range: $40,000 to $45,000. Competitive salary will be based on relevant experience and skills.
- Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, prescription, group-paid life, dental, and vision insurance for full-time and part-time staff.
- Pay rate increases for every 5 years of Sparc service
- Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days annually based on years of service.
- Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
- Fourteen (14) paid holidays with the ability to earn additional leave time for holidays worked.
- Employees earn eight to twelve (8-12) paid sick days annually based on years of service.
- Retirement savings plan options.
- Pre-tax Healthcare Flexible Spending Account option.
- Pre-tax Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account option.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment.
Working Conditions:
- Work primarily performed at Sparc’s Administration Building with occasional visits to the Vocational buildings.
- Safety and security procedures for each work site must be followed.
- Staff in this role may be exposed to moderate noise levels and potential contact with various illnesses and diseases as well as hazardous and toxic chemicals, with some exposure to physically threatening clients, bodily fluids, bloodborne and airborne diseases, viruses, communicable diseases, etc.
The foregoing outlines the general duties and qualifications for the Client Resources Specialist. This job description may be changed or modified at any time at the discretion of management, either formally or informally, verbally or in writing. Specific responsibilities may vary depending on the needs of individual clients and organizational requirements.
Salary : $40,000 - $45,000
