Program Operations Specialist (Bellingham)

ABOUT NWRC Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a multi-service agency that covers the Washington counties of Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom, with offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, Washington. NWRC’s slogan: “Human services with you at the center” encapsulates its focus on creating new solutions to navigate the challenges of aging and disability, proactive paths to behavioral health and recovery, and new partnerships between healthcare and social services. We are seeking applicants for a Program Operations Specialist. JOIN US NWRC’s values are centered on the concepts of respect, inclusiveness, and striving to foster a healthy work environment for all employees. With these values in mind, we will do our part to support and further diversity, equity, and inclusion not only in our workplace, but in our communities. Toward this goal, we invite candidates from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply and help shape the future of NWRC. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT The Business Development unit impacts agency-wide operations by supporting and growing various programs. The unit is comprised of program administrative and operational support, and contracts management. A DAY IN THE LIFE Program Operations Specialists provide support to our clinical programs including care coordination and behavioral health. This includes working in electronic health records and databases to ensure the work is recorded and billed correctly, providing support to clinicians, working with subcontractors and payers, and satisfying the reporting requirements of each program. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS 10-Step pay range: $27.66 - $36.09 hourly NWRC salary ranges are comprised of a 10-Step scale. On their employment anniversary, employees are eligible for an annual pay increase to the next step in the associated salary range, subject to satisfactory performance. In addition to the annual pay increases, NWRC assesses cost of living adjustments (COLA) on an annual basis, subject to Governing Board approval. New employees at NWRC usually start at the first step in the position’s assigned salary range. NWRC may consider a higher step when evaluating the candidate’s experience, training, or proven capability. Internal equity will be reviewed and prioritized when determining a starting pay rate. As a full-time, permanent, non-exempt role, this position is eligible for the following benefits: 100% Employer paid medical for individual employee plans and up to 95% paid medical for dependent coverage plans, with multiple plan options 100% Employer paid Dental and Vision for the employee and eligible dependents with multiple plan options Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS 2 or PERS 3) 100% Employer paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employee & dependents Life and Long-term Disability insurance, including voluntary buy-up options Vacation Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month & increasing with longevity Sick Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month 12 Paid Holidays Annually 3 Paid Wellness Days Annually Voluntary Flex Spending Plans for health and/or child/elder care Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program Alternative Work Schedules Hybrid Work Environment 4% premium pay offered for Certified Social Services Interpreters Note: NWRC meets the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) definition of a public service organization. SCHEDULE & LOCATION NWRC strives to offer employees schedule flexibility while balancing the needs of their role within the agency with their personal lives. The Program Operations Specialist will work with the Business Development Director to develop a schedule that includes regular, in person time in the Bellingham office as well as optional remote days. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Bachelor's Degree in social services or related field; AND one year of experience in social services and/or in a support staff function; OR Two years of college level courses in a relevant field; AND three years of experience in social services and/or in a support staff function; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the skills, knowledge and ability to perform the work. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Broad knowledge of the legal, contractual and financial requirements relates to NWRC programs. Demonstrated ability to work with databases, word processing and spreadsheets at an intermediate skill level. Ability to perform complex data analysis and compile data driven summaries. Ability to analyze situations accurately and adopt effective course of action. Ability to provide technical support/explain complex program processes to staff and community partners. Ability to work independently, including organizing and prioritizing assignments, drafting routine correspondence, trouble shooting and problem solving. Ability to work with efficiency and flexibility under frequent pressure of deadlines. Ability to maintain confidentiality of client, provider, and staff information. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other agency personnel, and the general public using courtesy, tact and good judgment. Sensitivity to the needs and values that are present in working with diverse groups of people. Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements: Must have a valid Washington State driver's license, a vehicle available for work-related travel, and appropriate liability insurance. RECRUITMENT & SELECTION PROCESS After reviewing the applications, the NWRC will contact the most qualified candidates to participate in a selection process consisting of job-related selection exercises. NWRC will make reasonable accommodation upon request for those individuals with disabilities. If you are interested in applying for this job, please visit https://nwrc.bamboohr.com/careers/57 to complete the full application.