10/01/1981 44680

ENERGY ASSISTANCE WORKER

DEFINITION: This is seasonal work interviewing applicants and performing related clerical work in taking and processing claims for assistance under the Department of Public Welfare's Energy Assistance Program.

Employees in this class are employed on a seasonal basis to perform preliminary interviews of applicants in order to establish eligibility for assistance in the payment of residential energy bills. Work involves interviewing applicants, completing application forms and validating data received in order to recommend approval or disapproval of applications consistent with Federal and state Energy Assistance program regulations. A major portion of the work is devoted to the routine processing of initial applications and performance of related clerical duties. Employees participate in formal training courses as well as on-the-job training designed to develop knowledges and skills necessary in processing the applications. Work assignments are limited in scope and performed under the close supervision of an Income Maintenance Supervisor who reviews work for completeness, accuracy, and adherence to program regulations.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Interviews applicants to gather data and ascertain eligibility for benefits under the Energy Assistance Program.

Completes application forms, including arithmetical calculations; completes vendor authorization forms and notice-to-applicant forms related to the Energy Assistance Program.

Maintains logs of applications by name and number and submits summary reports periodically.

Contacts vendors, employers and other individuals to verify application data when necessary.

Reviews files of current recipients to verify accuracy of categorically eligible applicants.

Attends training classes and reviews program regulations to assist in the processing of applications.

Performs related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and techniques of interviewing.

Knowledge of office practices, procedures and equipment.

Knowledge of basic arithmetic.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to learn, interpret and apply program policy, rules and regulations.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years of experience in general office work which included interviewing the public;

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Any equivalent combination of experience and training.