About the Department
Performs difficult administrative and technical work investigating fraud or alleged fraud cases in the income maintenance programs of Onslow County Department of Social Services. Requires reviewing clients' case files and making decisions as to the appropriate action to take in resolving the case. Determine if errors exist and, if so, the cause of the errors. Evaluates anonymous reports to determine validity and if a more in-depth review is needed. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Income Maintenance Supervisor.
Our core values—Resilience, Excellence, Accountability, Customer Service, and Honesty—are the foundation of our work and the standard by which we operate. As a member of our team, you are expected to demonstrate these values in every aspect of your role. This means delivering high-quality work, taking responsibility for your actions, providing exceptional service, and maintaining integrity in all interactions. Your commitment to these principles is essential to fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring the success of our organization and the community we serve.
Position Duties
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Investigates public assistance fraud, verifies eligibility, and obtains and prepares evidence to support an intent to commit a violation. Accurately reconstructs case files and analyzes files against current income maintenance regulations, rules, and procedures and those in effect at the time of the alleged error or fraud.
- Conducts interviews of clients, employers, and/or income maintenance caseworker referring the case; assists in presenting case to the Supervisor for further action.
- Interprets and applies current and previous policies related to income maintenance programs including Food and Nutrition Services, Work First Family Assistance (WFFA), Medicaid, County Special Assistance programs, Energy Program or Subsidized Childcare Assistance; refer to applicable manuals required to complete investigations.
- Independently researches the case to decide on a course of action either in dismissing the case, negotiating with the client for repayment or presenting the case in an administrative hearing.
- Submits work and investigations to review on a case-by-case basis by the Department of Social Services Attorney, Income Maintenance Administrator, and Department of Social Services Director.
- Provides information to suspected clients, agency management, and judicial representatives based on information gathered during the investigative process.
- Performs assigned functions as a Disaster Ready Team (DRT) member.
- Performs related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Considerable knowledge of Income Maintenance manuals, rules, and procedures used in determining eligibility in multiple public assistance programs. Considerable knowledge of investigative procedures and techniques. Considerable knowledge of agency's organizational rules, policies, and procedures. General knowledge of the judicial system. Good mathematical reasoning and computational skills. Ability to recognize, collect, and evaluate evidence to support actions. Ability to communicate effectively with applicants, community agencies, law enforcement agencies, and judiciary personnel to obtain or present pertinent data. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public. Ability to present information orally or in written form.
Other Qualifications
High school diploma or GED and a minimum of 3 years' experience as an income maintenance caseworker, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Associates/Technical degree preferred.
Valid driver license
Compensation will be determined based on qualifications, internal equity, budget, and market considerations.