Pay Grade/Pay Range:  Minimum: $44,200 - Midpoint: $55,300 (Salaried E6)

Department/Organization: 218142 - AL Disability Advocacy Prog (ADAP)

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:45pm

Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for hybrid work subject to University policy.

Job Summary: The Case Advocate I conducts all phases of advocacy for individuals and classes of persons with disabilities for whom legal rights have been denied. Assists with intake work, case investigations, representation, negotiation, administrative remedies, and providing information and referral services throughout the State of Alabama. Presents to consumers and the public concerning the rights of persons with disabilities and current legal issues affecting individuals with disabilities. Works collaboratively with Clinical Students and Law Clerks, Senior Advocates, and Attorneys.

Additional Department Summary: ADAP is the statewide protection and advocacy system for the state of Alabama. ADAP works to achieve fairness and justice for Alabamians with disabilities and provides legally based advocacy services.

Investigates allegations of abuse and neglect against persons with disabilities. Participates in legislative and regulatory advocacy work. Conducts education and outreach about disability rights. Conducts interviews of persons or entities serving as representative payees for beneficiaries of Social Security payments following specific guidelines and protocols—interview representative payees and beneficiaries. Reviews confidential and private records. Document observations and collect evidence and information of value. Reviews work sites and housing facilities for possible health and safety violations. Reviews and analyzes financial records to assess violations or potential incidents of mismanagement of beneficiary funds. Prepares comprehensive reports detailing the findings. Develops corrective action plans to assist representative payees in conforming to requirements specified by the Social Security AdministrationCommissioner. Works with complex reviews and be required to train representative payees in their duties. Provides beneficiaries information and referral to other programs or services as appropriate to protect their rights and secure their well-being.

This is a 2-year fellowship position with the opportunity of extension at the end of the 2 year period.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or higher and some attorney, educator, paralegal, and/or advocate experience.

Additional Required Department Minimum Qualifications: Must have valid U.S. driver's license. Must be at least 19 years of age at time of hire and have an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report that is in compliance with University policies. Applicants under the age of 21 will have some driving restrictions.

If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation to participate in any portion of the University's employment process, please email the Human Resources Department at hr@ua.edu or contact us by phone at (205)-348-7732.

Skills and Knowledge: Demonstrated ability to analyze and synthesize information from a variety of sources. Ability to work independently while being supervised and supported by supervisor and other team members. Ability to multitask. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal relationship skills. Basic computer skills. High commitment to service excellence.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with or functional knowledge regarding: laws, regulations and programs affecting people with disabilities; Alabama public and private agencies serving persons with disabilities; and the disability rights movement, the disability community, or other vulnerable people or communities. Ability to read, write and speak Spanish or communicate using American Sign Language, with sufficient fluency to communicate with clients.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

About University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa

As the state’s flagship university, The University of Alabama family has always focused on being the best. After all, we are The Capstone of Higher Education. Founded in 1831 as the state’s first public college, The University of Alabama is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and service. We provide a creative, nurturing campus environment where our students can become the best individuals possible, learn from the best and brightest faculty, and make a positive difference in the community, the state and the world. You’ll like what you find here. Become part of The University of Alabama family.

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