Open until filled. First review of applications will be on May 7th, finalists will be called on May 11th, interviews will be held on May 18th.

Position Objective: The primary objective of this position is to conduct assessments to determine eligibility for individuals requesting long-term services and supports (LTSS) for Aitkin and Crow Wing Counties. If not already certified, the employee will be required to obtain MnCHOICES certification.

This position is responsible for performing assessment functions and requires proficiency in person-centered planning. A MnCHOICES Assessor must have a strong understanding of eligibility criteria for home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers and other LTSS programs, including Community First Services and Supports (CFSS).

The assessor supports individuals in making informed choices about available services and programs. They develop person-centered assessment summaries that reflect identified needs and support options within the context of each individual’s values, interests, and goals.

This position is employed by Aitkin County and functions as a shared, full-time role serving both Aitkin County and Crow Wing County. Responsibilities and service delivery span both jurisdictions in coordination with each county’s Health and Human Services operations. Crow Wing County shall reimburse Aitkin County for its proportionate share of costs associated with this position.

Final Appointing Authority
This position shall not be filled until final approval of the County Administrator. All offers of employment are made in writing by the Human Resources Department.

Job Summary
Conduct comprehensive MnCHOICES assessments to determine eligibility for long-term services and supports for individuals with disabilities, older adults, and those with complex medical or behavioral health needs. This position provides person-centered assessment, care planning, and service coordination, to support individuals in accessing appropriate services that promote independence, safety, and well-being.

Supervision Received
Employees working in this job class work under general supervision and usually receive some instruction with respect to details of most assignments but are free to develop their own work sequences within established procedures, methods, and policies. They are often physically removed from their supervisor and are only subject to periodic supervisory checks.

Supervision Exercised
No formal supervisory authority.

Essential Functions
This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other essential and nonessential functions as assigned or apparent to meet the ongoing needs of the department and organization. Regular attendance and punctuality are essential requirements of this position.
1.    Conduct MnCHOICES assessments in accordance with Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) requirements, utilizing a person-centered approach to evaluate functional needs, strengths, preferences, and support systems. 
2.    Develop, implement, and monitor individualized support plans, including Community Support Plans (CSP) and Coordinated Service and Support Plans (CSSP). 
3.    Determine eligibility for long-term care programs including waiver services, Alternative Care (AC), and other state plan services. 
4.    Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, providers, families, and community partners to ensure appropriate service delivery. 
5.    Conduct reassessments as required to ensure continued eligibility and appropriate service levels. 
6.    Maintain accurate, timely, and audit-ready documentation in compliance with state and federal requirements. 
7.    Provide education to individuals and families regarding available services, program eligibility, and person-centered planning options. 
8.    Respond to crisis situations and assist in developing plans to ensure client health and safety. 
9.    Participate in required training to maintain MnCHOICES Assessor certification and stay current with DHS policy and practice changes. 
10.    Represent the department on committees, workgroups, and community collaborations related to disability services and long-term care. 
11.    Perform other related duties as assigned or apparent. 

Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in social work, psychology, sociology, nursing, public health nursing, or a closely related human services field; OR licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Public Health Nurse (PHN) in the State of Minnesota.

Must meet Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) qualifications to serve as a certified MnCHOICES Assessor, including completion of required MnCHOICES Assessor training and certification.

Must successfully complete DHS-required MnCHOICES training, including:
•    MnCHOICES Assessor Certification training 
•    Person-Centered Thinking and Planning training 
•    Ongoing DHS-required continuing education and recertification 

Must maintain MnCHOICES Assessor certification in good standing in accordance with DHS requirements.

Valid Minnesota driver’s license required. 

Employment reference checks and a criminal background check will be performed as part of the pre-employment process.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

Knowledge of:
1.    MnCHOICES assessment process, tools, and DHS guidelines. 
2.    Long-term care programs including waiver services, Alternative Care, and state plan services. 
3.    Principles and practices of person-centered planning. 
4.    State and federal laws related to vulnerable adults and service delivery systems. 
5.    Community resources and referral processes. 
6.    Data privacy laws including HIPAA requirements. 
7.    Electronic case management systems and documentation standards. 

Skill in:
1.    Conducting comprehensive assessments and evaluations. 
2.    Interviewing clients, families, and collateral contacts. 
3.    Organizing and prioritizing workload. 
4.    Effective interpersonal communication with diverse populations. 
5.    Analytical thinking and problem-solving. 
6.    Documentation and report writing. 
7.    Maintaining professionalism in challenging situations. 

Ability to:
1.    Establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, families, providers, and community partners. 
2.    Maintain confidentiality. 
3.    Work independently and make sound decisions with limited direction. 
4.    Manage time effectively and meet required timelines. 
5.    Adapt to ongoing regulatory and policy changes. 
6.    De-escalate potentially volatile situations. 
7.    Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. 

Language Skills
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond effectively to inquiries and present information to individuals, groups, and stakeholders.

Mathematical Skills
Ability to perform basic mathematical functions including calculating rates, ratios, and percentages.

Reasoning Skills
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret complex instructions and apply sound judgment.

Computer Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and state systems including SSIS, CaseWorks, and Revised MnCHOICES.

Ability to Travel
Frequent travel is required to client residences, facilities, hospitals, and community locations throughout the State of Minnesota.

Competencies
Ethics, dependability, analytical thinking, customer service, interpersonal communication, teamwork, professionalism, adaptability, and crisis management.

Work Environment
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While conducting assessments in homes and community settings, may be exposed to challenging environments including unsanitary conditions, hazardous situations, volatile clients, and adverse weather conditions.

Equipment and Tools
Computer-laptop, two monitors, mouse, telephone, work cell phone, headset, VPN, printer, county vehicle, and personal vehicle (proof of insurance required).

Physical Activities/Requirements
Requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and other physical activities consistent with field-based work. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties. Aitkin County reserves the right to amend this position description as necessary.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice
The County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Our Vision: We strive to be a county of safe, vibrant communities that place value on good stewardship of local resources.
Our Mission: Aitkin County’s mission is to provide outstanding service in a fiscally responsible manner through innovation and collaboration with respect for all.

Our Core Values: Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, People-Focused, Professionalism

¹ Classified as FLSA Exempt, but currently paid as Non-exempt