Job Summary

Act as an efficient, effective and accurate case manager for STEP$ supplement recipients across the state by processing applications and payments against the eligibility requirements, policies and procedures developed by DCDEE. This position also performs outreach virtually and in person (i.e. local conferences or meetings, community colleges, child care sites) to share information and encourage participation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Treat information on Early Years clients, employees and Board members in a confidential manner
• Complete and support the work of all programs within the Compensation Initiatives Division
• Have in-depth knowledge about both divisional supplement programs in order to provide excellent customer service to all clients and do field and/or virtual presentations for both opportunities
• Provide bilingual services (application processing, written and verbal translation, customer service) for Spanish speaking clients
• Recruit participants by mail, email, phone and outreach/presentations
• Follow up on incomplete applications
• Process applications and make payment decisions. This will include but is not limited to:
  • Assessing coursework against extensive eligible education levels
  • Determining eligibility and supplement amounts based on varied employment positions
  • Collecting and assessing appropriate evidence to confirm full-time employment of applicants
• Manage reapplication process
• Answer questions and explain program policies and procedures for clients as needed
• Create and/or generate notification letters and other program materials
• Confirm employment, submit pay schedules for approval and ensure payments and notifications are sent
• Maintain, track and manage hardcopy and/or electronic and database records of participants, payments and facilities
• Participate in creating and implementing team goals
• Participate in various agency-sponsored events and represent Early Years in a professional manner
• Perform other tasks as assigned by agency leadership

Special Skills

• Effective oral and written communication skills with internal and external clients
• Ability to convey complex information and provide quality customer service
• Computer experience; knowledge of or demonstrated ability to learn FileMaker Pro and virtual platforms
• Attention to detail with ability to accurately handle large volume of administrative work
• Ability to understand office systems and program polices/procedures and to critically analyze situations
• Strong organizational skills, planning skills, and the ability to multitask while working independently, sometimes remotely

Education and Experience Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree is required. A degree in early childhood/child development or a related human services field or a degree in business or a related field is preferred.
• At least two years of child care or administration experience are required. Volunteer hours in early childhood may be required depending on employment history.
• Bilingual in Spanish/English required.

Special Working Requirements

• An automobile at his/her disposal; a valid, non-suspended NC driver’s license and a current automobile liability policy with continuous coverage. Reasonable accommodations may be made at the agency’s discretion.
• Must be able to manipulate and operate office supplies and equipment. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities.
• No substantiation or criminal conviction of child abuse or neglect
• Some positions may require need for flexible schedules, including potential evening and weekend work
• Must adhere to established health and safety protocols when onsite at Early Years’s physical office locations
• If working remotely or approved for a hybrid work arrangement, must have dependable internet access and a home environment conducive for remote work.
• Some positions may require some regional/statewide/national daytime and/or overnight travel

Early Years Benefits

Early Years has a generous benefits package. Permanent employees that work at least 20 hours per week are eligible for benefits. Some of the benefits we offer include:

• Section 125 Cafeteria Plan
• Health, dental, vision and life insurance
• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employer contribution to 401k Retirement Plan
• Paid annual and sick leave
• 15 paid days of holiday leave
• Paid child Involvement Leave
• Paid discretionary leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Child Care Tuition payments
• And more…

Early Years also offers many fringe benefits. Some of the fringe benefits include:

• Casual dress work environment
• Direct deposit
• Standing and emergency payroll advances
• Child Care Referral assistance
• And more…

Early Years has been awarded Living Wage Employer Certifications in Orange and Durham Counties, and is a Family Forward NC Certified Employer.

Employment is contingent upon passing a criminal background check. Early Years is no longer requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for employment due to the fact that there is significantly less risk of severe illness.  However, Early Years strongly recommends that employees receive this vaccination in order to minimize the risk of infections in our workplace. 

Job Features

Job Category	Non-Exempt
Division	Compensation Initiatives
Department	STEP$
Salary Range	$42,840 – $49,266