Aging & Disability Resource Program Specialist

ABOUT NWRC

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a multi-service agency that covers the Washington counties of Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom, with offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, Washington. NWRC’s slogan: “Human services with you at the center” encapsulates its focus on creating new solutions to navigate the challenges of aging and disability, proactive paths to behavioral health and recovery, and new partnerships between healthcare and social services. We are seeking applicants for an Aging & Disability Resources (ADR) Program Specialist to join our Skagit office.

JOIN US

NWRC’s values are centered on the concepts of respect, inclusiveness, and striving to foster a healthy work environment for all employees. With these values in mind, we will do our part to support and further diversity, equity, and inclusion not only in our workplace, but in our communities. Toward this goal, we invite candidates from all backgrounds and perspectives to apply and help shape the future of NWRC.

AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCES PROGRAM

Aging and Disability Recourses (ADR) primarily serves people who are older or who need long term care by providing information and referral assistance. We work in partnership with clients and our community, linking people with resources such as Meals on Wheels, respite care, care planning and care giving.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

The Aging & Disability Resources Program Specialist provides information regarding services, products, and/or resources available to clients and their families through social service agencies, medical providers, and community partners in the aging and disability network. ADR Specialists screen clients for services, make referrals to the appropriate resource(s) and provide general assistance to clients and families.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

10-Step pay range: $28.49- $37.17 hourly

NWRC salary ranges are comprised of a 10-Step scale. On their employment anniversary, employees are eligible for an annual pay increase to the next step in the associated salary range, subject to satisfactory performance. In addition to the annual pay increases, NWRC assesses cost of living adjustments (COLA) on an annual basis, subject to Governing Board approval. New employees at NWRC usually start at the first step in the position’s assigned salary range. NWRC may consider a higher step when evaluating the candidate’s experience, training, or proven capability. Internal equity will be reviewed and prioritized when determining a starting pay rate.

As a full-time, permanent, non-exempt role, this position is eligible for the following benefits:

• 100% Employer paid medical for individual employee plans and up to 95% paid medical for dependent coverage plans, with multiple plan options
• 100% Employer paid Dental and Vision for the employee and eligible dependents with multiple plan options
  
• Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS 2 or PERS 3)
• 100% Employer paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employee & dependents
• Life and Long-term Disability insurance, including voluntary buy-up options
• Vacation Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month & increasing with longevity
• Sick Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month
• 13 Paid Holidays Annually
• 3 Paid Wellness Days Annually
• Voluntary Flex Spending Plans for health and/or child/elder care
• Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program
• Alternative Work Schedules
• Hybrid Work Environment
• 4% premium pay offered for Certified Social Services Interpreters

Note: NWRC meets the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) definition of a public service organization.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION
NWRC strives to offer employees schedule flexibility while balancing the needs of their role within the agency with their personal lives. The Program Specialist will work with the Community Programs Supervisor to develop a schedule that includes regular, in person time in the Skagit office as well as optional remote days.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree in human services or related field, and two years of volunteer or paid experience providing direct human/social services OR
• Two years relevant college courses; and four years of volunteer or paid human services experience
  

An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the skills, knowledge, and ability to perform the work may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated skills in interpersonal communication, client assessment, problem-solving, organization, time management, and documentation of activities.
• Ability to manage several tasks at one time with repeated interruptions, in a shared office space, and meet regular deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work with computers and various computer software programs including Microsoft Office, Access database, internet, and email.
• Ability to maintain client confidentiality, including client information, and financial records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other members of government service, community partners, businesses, and members of the general public using courtesy, tact, and good judgement.
• Demonstrated skills in public speaking and providing presentations to groups of people.
• Sensitivity to the needs and values that present in working with diverse groups of people.
• Knowledge of Alzheimer’s and dementia is desired but not required.
  
• Skill and/or fluency in speaking Russian or Spanish is desired but not required.

Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver's license, a vehicle available for work-related travel, and appropriate liability insurance.
• Become AIRS Certified during the second year of employment (after one full year of employment)
  

RECRUITMENT & SELECTION PROCESS

NWRC is committed to continuous improvement in our recruitment and selection practices. We strive to provide a respectful, inclusive and transparent candidate experience, while reducing barriers and supporting equitable access to employment opportunities. We prioritize timely, clear communication with candidates to reduce uncertainty and our selection process is comprised of job-related evaluation methods that are reviewed by multiple hiring team members. Applicants may request reasonable accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.