Client Services Officer

Description:

The Client Services Officer (CSO) delivers Income Security Programs using a Service Management approach and provides comprehensive and quality programs and services that enable Northwest Territories (NWT) residents in need to obtain the necessities required to maintain their health, dignity and reach self-sufficiency. This position delivers Income Security Programs in accordance with NWT legislation, policies, guidelines, and established procedures, and holds a statutory appointment under the Social Assistance Act.

Reporting to the Regional Manager, Income Security Programs, North Slave this position is located in Whati and is responsible for the delivery of the Income Security Programs (ISPs), which range in scope from full assistance to income subsidies. Income Security Programs assist eligible NWT residents to meet their financial needs and maintain their health, dignity and reach self-sufficiency.

The ISPs consists of an annual budget for the NWT of approximately $40 million.

Due to the fact that the CSO is often in a different community than his/her supervisor, the CSO must work with a high degree of autonomy and independence to adjudicate eligibility and establish entitlement using problem-solving techniques, judgment, precedence, legislation, policy, guidelines, and procedures.

The CSO works with ECE staff, other GNWT departments and outside agencies using a service management approach to integrate services, ensure effective program delivery, and make the

best use of resources available. The CSO has authorization of up to $2,500 per cheque and holds spending authority for all community based Income Security programs. Several cheques may be issued to one applicant/recipient or a number of applicants/recipients per day. Funds are withdrawn from the Regional Income Security budget. Expenditures in Whati/Gameti and Wekweeti totaled $415,000.00 in 2009/10.

The position has a significant impact on individuals, families and the community by providing the necessary supports to maintain a healthy lifestyle and to provide assistance with developing productive choices.'