About the Organization

Tulsa Responds provides free one-on-one navigation services to Tulsans who qualify for federal assistance programs such as free tax filing through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), Medicaid/SoonerCare enrollment, internet subsidies, and SNAP benefits. Our work is funded by the George Kaiser Family Foundation, nonprofit grants, and federal funds. The Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) program aims to improve the financial stability of Tulsa households by providing high-quality, one-on-one financial education and counseling to low-income residents. Financial Empowerment Centers are located in areas with high concentrations of poverty and financial distress.

Position Purpose

We seek a Spanish-speaking bilingual Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) counselor who embodies empathy, motivation, and a passion for helping individuals achieve their financial goals. Financial Counselors are vital in supporting Tulsa Responds' mission by providing exceptional, empathy-driven customer service to low-income families and individuals striving to attain financial stability and economic independence while meeting process compliance and quality assurance requirements as determined by each project. The FEC Counselor position will report directly to the FEC Program Manager of Tulsa Responds.

Responsibilities / Essential Duties

• Provide individualized financial counseling sessions (including both initial and follow-up sessions) and achieve client outcomes
• Assess client needs and develop individual financial action plans with each client
• Engage in ongoing follow-up with clients
• Make appropriate referrals and integrate other wraparound supports (i.e. benefits, tax preparation) into counseling to achieve greater results
• Follow required protocol and program requirements
• Collect, track and report required data using a client management database
• Participate in initial trainings and ongoing professional development trainings
• Successfully complete and pass counselor training.
• Provide quality customer service to all potential clients
• Be courteous, friendly, and empathetic to all existing and potential clients
• Gather helpful feedback from clients and communicate issues with processes and client concerns to the Project Manager in a timely manner
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college and/or two years of experience of relevant work experience with some background in social service delivery, community engagement/outreach, financial education, or counseling/coaching;
• The ideal candidate has particular expertise in one of the following: social work, financial planning, coaching/mentoring, teaching, financial services, or other related fields.
• Previous experience working with diverse populations, especially those facing financial challenges.
• Preferred: Customer service experience, independent and collaborative work on initiatives/team projects, and experience with nonprofits.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish

Skills and Abilities

• Interpersonal skills - Energetic and dedicated professional with robust interpersonal skills, passionate about aiding those with low incomes for improved financial stability. Demonstrates sensitivity to diverse cultures and communities, excelling in multicultural environments.
• Critical thinking - Expertise in strategic planning, negotiations, program development, and written communications. Skilled at problem-solving, improving systems, and proposing data-driven solutions. Demonstrated ability to set goals and execute strategic plans for organizational success. Strong an alytical skills to identify, propose, and implement solutions. Effective at simplifying complex information concisely.
• Attention to detail - Expertise in systems development and tracking. Strong attention to detail and high-quality work output under pressure. Proficient in using client management databases. Efficiently handles multiple tasks with minimal errors. Skilled in developing, implementing, and assessing performance metrics. Proficient in project planning, task tracking, progress assessment, and plan execution. Effective in managing up to administration.
• Adaptability - Applicants should quickly grasp new concepts, excel in customer service, possess a problem-solving mindset, and be strong team players. Comfortable taking initiative, effective collaborator, and adept at multitasking. Can operate effectively within the protocols of a high-profile local government program. Acquires knowledge about credit, debt, money management, and financial products. Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, adapting to change and managing competing priorities. Willingly adapts to established priorities and ensures compliance.
• Communication - Proficient in verbal and written communication in English and Spanish (preferred), with the ability to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences.
• Time management and Tech - Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Required ability to adeptly use computer programs and learn new software. Strong time management and organizational skills.

Physical Requirements

• Extended periods of sitting: The position requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or workstation, analyzing and processing tax-related information. Good posture and the ability to remain seated for extended durations are essential.
• Manual dexterity: Strong manual dexterity is necessary to handle documents, and operate calculators, keyboards, and other equipment accurately and efficiently.
• Visual acuity: The ability to maintain clear vision is vital for reviewing and verifying numbers, data, and tax documents. This includes reading the fine print, identifying errors or discrepancies, and ensuring accuracy in all tax-related information.
• Focus and concentration: This position involves dealing with regulations, calculations, and financial information. The ability to maintain focus and concentration for extended periods is crucial to ensure accuracy and minimize errors.
• Stress management: The role of a financial counselor can be demanding. The ability to handle and manage work-related stress effectively is essential to maintain productivity and accuracy.

Hours and Location

• The main office for this position is located at 2174 S Sheridan Rd, Tulsa, OK 74129.
• Our standard work week is Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• While the typical schedule is weekdays, there may be occasional requirements to work weekends, evenings, or non-traditional hours.
• This role may involve local travel to different events or worksites.

Additional Requirements

• Candidates for this position must have a reliable source of transportation available consistently during regular work hours from 9 am to 5 pm. It is important that this source remains accessible and functional throughout the duration of the workday.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Current Car Insurance

About our Benefits

As part of our overall compensation package, we offer work/life flexibility, paid time off, and generous retirement contributions designed to support you and your family.

Details:

• 401K employee and employer contributions.
• Paid time off to support you while you are out of the office.