Program Services Specialist (U) (4774)

Under administrative supervision, the Program Services Specialist performs professional social service/counseling functions for the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) Program.

Administration (100%)

1. Assists the program director, training instructor(s) and principal investigator in planning, developing and implementing the CRSS Program.
2. Interviews and assesses program participants to identify individual needs, including social determinants of learning. Assists in program stipend determination and disbursements.
3. Serves as the training instructor of in-person and online classes.
4. Collaborates with CRSS team to assess classroom behavioral competencies.
5. Recognizes the need for services that may not be obvious to program participants.
6. Provides information to educate program participants on the services provided and available to them; connects participants to community resources.
7. Develops a plan of action for each program participant requesting program and community services.
8. Provides data and statistical information, records, and reports necessary to fulfill reporting requirements for the program.
9. Establishes and maintains relationships with local and/or community organizations and agencies.
10. Participates in community workgroups, initiatives, and projects in such areas as program recruitment, employment, education, medical services, social services, and housing as required and requested by the program. Acts as liaison between organizations and the program participants.
11. Acts as a resource and marketing contact to potential program participants and members of the community who request information pertaining to benefits of the program.
12. Advertises the program to community resources and potential program participants.
13. Provides support to program participants as they develop skills relevant to established program competencies.
14. Uses a whole-team approach to meet the needs of the participants being served by program.
15. Develops program-specific resource materials.
16. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Credentials to be Verified by Placement Officer

Any one or combination totaling three (3) years (36 months) from the categories below:

1. Coursework in social work or behavioral sciences, or closely related field as measured by the following conversion table or its proportional equivalent:
   • 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months)
   • Associate's Degree (60 semester hours) equals eighteen months (18 months)
   • 90 semester hours equals two (2) years (24 months)
   • Bachelor's Degree (120 semester hours) equals three (3) years (36 months)
2. Progressively more responsible work experience in social service/ counseling at a paraprofessional level under qualified supervision.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

1. Working knowledge of human nature.
2. Ability to interview individuals to determine their physical, social, and/or possible psychological needs.
3. Ability to organize, prepare, and maintain records, reports, files, and correspondence.
4. Ability to obtain services necessary to meet participants' needs.
5. Ability to establish effective working relationships with program participants and staff

Condition of Employment Pursuant to the State Universities Civil Service System, an out-of-state resident who is hired into this position must establish Illinois residency within 180 calendar days of their start date.