Bilingual Aide

General Statement of Job

Under direct supervision, performs work in a social services environment to assist customers over the telephone and in face-to-face interviews; translates written documents and correspondence; assists customers during the intake process and translates customer information for agency staff. Contacts customers per request from staff by telephone, in writing; accompanies staff on home visits when requested. Performs clerical work by assisting Eligibility and Services Workers with translating various documents and for their customers. Performs other work as required. Reports to the Division Director, Administration Services.

Special Duties & Responsibilities

• Interprets for Spanish speaking customers over the telephone and in face-to-face interviews.

• Translates written documents and correspondence.

• Screens applicants and assists customers during the intake process by translating customer information for agency staff.

• Contacts customers per request from staff by telephone, in writing; accompanies staff on home visits.

• Types, prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, fliers or other documents.

• Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, checklists, CPS and criminal investigation reports, maps, handbooks, policies, procedures, manuals, directories, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.

• Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; utilizes word processing, spreadsheet, database, or other software programs.

• Performs general clerical tasks, which may include making copies, sending/receiving faxes, sorting/distributing incoming mail, preparing outgoing mail, or filing documentation.

• Communicates with supervisor, employees, volunteers, foster parents, foster children, state/federal agencies, social service agencies, other County departments, community organizations, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.

• Assists with various activities/events as needed, such as training activities or recognition activities.

• Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Training & Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent; with knowledge of oral and written English and Spanish languages and two (2) or more years' experience in translation; or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities. Excellent oral/written communication, public relations, interpersonal and organizational skills necessary. Experience in dealing with a variety of people with diverse cultural backgrounds; ability to handle stressful situations in a professional manner.

Background check as required for Spotsylvania County employees. Check(s) as required by Virginia Department of Social Services.

Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Special Requirements

• Knowledge of the policies, procedures, and activities of the County and of Social Services Department practices as they pertain to the performance of duties relating to the position of Bilingual Aide.

• Knowledge of practices, methods, and procedures relating to recruitment of foster care parents and placement of foster children.

• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

• Knowledge of the terminology, principles, and methods utilized within the department.

• Ability to know how to keep abreast of any changes in policy, methods, computer operations, equipment needs, policies, etc., as they pertain to departmental operations and activities.

• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply regulations, procedures, and related information.

• Ability to effectively communicate and interact with supervisors, members of the general public, and all other groups involved in the activities of the department.

• Ability to assemble information and make written reports and documents in a concise, clear and effective manner.

• Ability to use independent judgment and work with little direct supervision as situations warrant.

• Ability to use mathematical skill to handle required calculations using percentages and decimals.

• Ability to exhibit knowledge and proficiency with computers.

• Ability to read, understand, and interpret financial, technical, and computer reports and related materials.

• Ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things.

• Ability to speak and/or signal people to convey or exchange information.

• Ability to provide guidance, assistance, and/or interpretation to others regarding the application of procedures and standards to specific situations.

• Ability to read a variety of informational documentation, directions, instructions, and methods and procedures.

• Ability to write reports with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech.

• Ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control, and confidence using correct English and well-modulated voice.

• Ability to learn and understand relatively basic principles and techniques, to make independent judgments in absence of supervision, and to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation.

• Ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures and policies, and to follow verbal and written instructions, guidelines and objectives.

• Ability to utilize mathematical formulas, add and subtract totals, multiply and divide, determine percentages, and determine time and weight.

• Ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under minimal stress when confronted with an emergency.

• Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines, tools and equipment, such as a motor vehicle, computer, printer, copy machine, facsimile machine, calculator, or telephone. Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or work station. Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, and shape, visually with job related equipment. Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes in using automated office equipment and in operating motor vehicles. Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, equipment, control knobs, switches, etc. Must have the ability to use one hand for twisting or turning motion while coordinating other hand with different activities. Must have minimal/ levels of eye/hand/foot coordination. May require the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color. Requires the ability to talk and/or hear (talking - expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing - perceiving nature of sounds by ear).