Veterans' Direct Care Caseworker

GECAC, the largest anti-poverty organization in Erie County, PA, is seeking a Caseworker in the Veterans’ Direct Care Program in the Area Agency on Aging Division. With a budget of approximately $15 million and more than 110 staff, we help people and change lives daily. GECAC helps people throughout Erie County break the cycle of poverty, be self-sufficient, and achieve financial independence. Will you join our team?

This rewarding Caseworker position is full-time Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Job Summary

The Veteran Directed Care Caseworker is responsible for educating veterans and their representatives about the VDC program; assessing needs; developing, implementing, and monitoring individualized spending plans; coordinating supports and services; and providing ongoing advocacy and guidance. The Caseworker works collaboratively with veterans, caregivers, Fiscal Management Service (FMS) providers, the Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC), and community partners to ensure program compliance and successful service delivery.

This position works under the supervision of the Options Supervisor and maintains regular contact with veterans throughout their participation in the program.

Qualifications

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and confidentiality requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and electronic database systems.
• Knowledge of Medicaid, Medicare, veterans' benefits, and community-based long-term care programs preferred.
• Ability to learn and apply GECAC policies, procedures, and agency database systems.
• Knowledge of community resources and funding opportunities available to veterans, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage an independent caseload.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with veterans, families, providers, and community partners.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make appropriate decisions with minimal supervision.
• Strong advocacy and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and effectively respond during crisis situations.
• Commitment to person-centered service delivery and professional development.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

• Valid Pennsylvania Driver's License and reliable transportation required.
• Criminal background clearance required.
• Additional certifications and trainings may be required in accordance with agency policies and program requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Healthcare, Psychology, Gerontology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in case management, human services, aging services, disability services, healthcare, or related field preferred.
• Experience working with veterans, older adults, or individuals with disabilities is strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to walk, climb stairs, and access participant residences and community locations.
• Ability to travel independently throughout the GECAC service area.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

This is a hybrid position consisting of field-based, remote, and office work.

• Frequent travel is required to conduct assessments, home visits, reassessments, and participant monitoring activities.
• Approximately 50% of work time may be spent conducting community and in-home visits, including travel time.
• Remaining duties include case documentation, spending plan development, service coordination, fiscal monitoring, reporting, and participant follow-up activities.
• Must maintain a flexible work schedule to meet participant and program needs.
• Participation in required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities is mandatory.

Benefit Package including 403(b) Plan (company match), Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Account, Short- and Long-Term Disability.  Paid Holidays, Vacation, Personal & Sick time. We understand that there is more to life than work.

Pay: $20.10 - $21.27 per hour depending on experience.

Interested applicants apply online at https://www.gecac.org/about/careers.

Deadline to apply: until filled.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER