DSS Specialist I (Office Associate)

Job Description:

DSS Specialist I (Office Associate)

Description

Office Associate III - DSS Specialist I (Front Office)

Department of Social Services

12 Months, Full-Time

Non-exempt, Pay Grade 27

VRS-Eligible, Benefits-Eligible

***THE LISTING ON THE ALBEMARLE COUNTY WEBSITE IS FOR ADVERTISING PURPOSES ONLY. APPLICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES WEBSITE FOUND BELOW. APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED THROUGH THE ALBEMARLE COUNTY WEBSITE OR ANY SOURCE OTHER THAN VDSS ARE UNABLE TO BE CONSIDERED:

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Job Description:

Performs a wide variety of specialized and/or difficult clerical and administrative duties in an inclusive team environment. Position is embedded within a work unit and performs duties that are necessary to achieve work processes. Work requires extensive knowledge of department and unit policies, procedures, and services and the ability to communicate these to others. Tasks require the ability to plan and carry out assignments. Work often involves providing assistance to temporary staff, internal and external customers, and community partners. Work is performed under regular supervision. As an organization, ACDSS is committed to building a diverse team of contributors who believe and work from the foundation of our core values of equity and inclusion, hope, respect, opportunity, and self-determination. Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience and internal equity.

Essential Functions:

• Collects information and is responsible for a variety of routine administrative assignments;
• Prepares, prints, and distributes a variety of documents that may include highly confidential and time-sensitive information, including case -related or financial information;
• Answers routine correspondence for supervisor; receives, opens, and sorts mail; assists with bulk mailings; schedules meetings and appointments and administers calendar;
• Codes invoices and processes expense forms for payment;
• Collects and enters unit/department-related information into a database. Maintains database and keeps information current;
• Meets/greets/screens customers/visitors. Answers questions and provides information. Answers unit/department phones, takes messages, and provides responses;
• Operates a variety of office machines; may maintain inventory of materials, supplies and/or equipment. Serves as the first contact for office equipment maintenance;
• Provides back-up for department administrative staff; provides occasional direction to temporary staff;
• Performs related tasks as required.

Competency: Knowledge/ Skills/Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, equipment, and clerical techniques;
• Ability to make difficult arithmetic calculations, and set up complex forms and statistical tables;
• Ability to type and transcribe accurately;
• Knowledge of business English and spelling;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public;
• Basic to Intermediate level proficiency in office-related software;
• Intermediate-level proficiency in County or Department-specific databases;
• Office equipment used includes computer, copier, postage meter, fax machine, printer, multiple-line phone, paper folder, laminator, projector, and scanner.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma supplemented with related clerical or administrative experience in social services or related field OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Workers in this position are required to drive and they must meet the eligibility requirements of the County’s safe driver policy.
• Workers must be willing to travel occasionally overnight and may be required to assist in managing emergency shelters for the public.
• The candidate may be subject to criminal history and central registry background checks.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Works with the public via an office setting and/or telework. Involves frequent walking or standing and light lifting.
• Regular operation of office equipment and occasional operation of vehicles.
• Daily contact with clients and families and the community.

Remote Work:

This position is in office and not eligible for a remote work schedule. All County staff must maintain residence within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Salary Range:

The hiring range for this position is $22.06 - $24.38 per hour (approx. $45,877 - $50,706 per year). Starting offer is based on applicable education beyond minimum requirements and internal equity. The position also provides excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, VRS retirement, and continuing education/training opportunities. This is a full time, FLSA non-exempt position. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Position open until Friday, March 6, 2026.

Virginia Values Veterans:

Albemarle County is a Certified V3 organization.

EOE/EEO:

Albemarle County is an equal employment opportunity employer, and does not discriminate against any group or individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age or disability in regards to any aspect of employment policy and practice: recruitment, testing, selection, assignment, pay, conditions of work, training, leave, overtime, promotion, discipline, demotion, and separation.