Crisis Fuel Specialist in Westminster, Vermont at Southeastern Vermont Community Action Inc

The Crisis Fuel Specialist helps households facing a heating emergency stay safe and warm. During the Crisis Fuel season (November through April). The Specialist works directly with clients to review eligibility, complete applications, approve assistance, help with electric utilities disconnection, and arrange fuel deliveries with vendors, often for people who are worried, under pressure, and running out of fuel.

The role combines direct client service with careful recordkeeping. The Crisis Fuel Specialist handles each request with urgency, respect, and accuracy, keeps client files complete and compliant with State and Federal program requirements, and connects clients to Weatherization and other Family Services that can help them beyond the immediate crisis.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide direct assistance to clients applying for Crisis Fuel, WARMTH, and Emergency Furnace Repair and Replacement assistance, drawing on the appropriate funding source for each situation.
• Meet with clients in person or by phone to complete application forms, review documentation, and determine eligibility.
• Approve fuel assistance within program guidelines and contact vendors to schedule deliveries promptly.
• Help clients through immediate fuel/heat emergencies, such as making kerosene cans or kindling wood available for client use, or avoiding utility disconnection.
• Treat every client with patience and respect, recognizing the stress of a heating emergency.
• Maintain current knowledge of the private, State, and Federal grants, contracts, and other funds available for fuel assistance, so that each client receives the most appropriate help.
• Stay informed of program guidelines and changes throughout the season.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and confidential client forms and files in accordance with State and Federal program requirements.
• Complete paperwork on time and pass it to data entry staff promptly so that client records stay current.
• Refer clients to SEVCA’s Weatherization program and other Family Services for longer-term support.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with fuel vendors, Family Services colleagues, and the community SEVCA serves.
• Travel to outreach and satellite offices and provide services at those sites as needed.

Other Functions

• Attend trainings and meetings as required.
• Communicate regularly with the Crisis Fuel Coordinator, and with the Family Services Director or Deputy Executive Director when needed, about issues that require guidance or a higher level of authority to resolve.
• Participate fully in the Family Services team and provide leadership as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Family Services Program Coordinator, Family Services Director, or Executive Director that are consistent with the functions of this position, the Crisis Fuel program, Family Services, and SEVCA’s mission, goals, and priorities.

Job Standards and Accountability

• Prioritize work effectively, with emphasis on providing quality service, meeting paperwork deadlines, complying with program and grant requirements, and keeping client data current.
• Represent SEVCA positively to clients and the public. All public service and other media announcements must be reviewed and approved by the Family Services Director.
• Maintain an even temperament and contribute to a positive work environment.

Working Conditions

• This is a seasonal position, from roughly November through April.
• Multiple positions are being filled and can be full-time or part-time.
• The primary work location can be flexible, in Windham or Windsor County.
• The working conditions include routine use of computers, phones, and other office equipment if needed.
• Meetings occur in person and online with clients and staff.
• Travel for outreach and to other Family Services offices as needed.

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in human services or a related field, preferably working with households with low incomes.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with diverse individuals.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills; able to work quickly and accurately under time pressure.
• Strong computer skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Experience with Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Experience with fuel assistance, LIHEAP, or other emergency assistance programs.
• Experience in a nonprofit, community action, or human services setting.