Child Support Agent I or II

**Department:** Department of Social Services – Child Support Services **FLSA Status:** Non-Exempt **Position Type:** Full-Time **Hiring Range:** Based on Qualifications and Experience **Reports To:** Child Support Supervisor Position Summary McDowell County Department of Social Services is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented professional to serve as a Child Support Agent within the Child Support Services Program. This position is responsible for establishing, enforcing, and monitoring child support obligations in accordance with federal and North Carolina Child Support Enforcement (IV-D) regulations. The Child Support Agent manages an assigned caseload, conducts investigations, prepares legal documents, works closely with attorneys and court personnel, and assists families in obtaining financial support for their children. The position requires strong analytical skills, sound judgment, excellent customer service, and the ability to effectively manage sensitive and sometimes emotionally charged situations. Case Management - Manage an assigned caseload of child support enforcement cases. - Conduct interviews with custodial and non-custodial parents to gather case information. - Review applications and determine eligibility for Child Support Services. - Maintain accurate and complete electronic case records. - Ensure compliance with federal and state performance standards. Investigations - Locate absent parents using available local, state, and federal resources. - Investigate financial information necessary to establish child support obligations. - Verify employment, income, assets, and other relevant information. - Research legal and demographic information to support enforcement actions. Establishment and Enforcement - Establish paternity through voluntary acknowledgment or legal proceedings. - Prepare cases for establishment of child support orders. - Monitor compliance with court-ordered child support obligations. - Initiate enforcement remedies including: - Income withholding - Contempt actions - License revocations - Tax intercepts - Liens - Other remedies authorized under North Carolina law. Court Preparation - Prepare legal documents and case summaries for attorneys. - Assemble evidence and supporting documentation. - Coordinate witness information. - Attend court proceedings. - Testify in court when required. - Assist attorneys during hearings. Customer Service - Explain Child Support Services policies and procedures to clients. - Respond to inquiries from custodial and non-custodial parents. - Resolve issues through negotiation and conflict resolution whenever appropriate. - Provide professional service while maintaining confidentiality. Collaboration - Work cooperatively with: - District Court - Clerk of Court - Magistrates - Sheriff's Office - District Attorney - Private attorneys - Employers - State and federal agencies - Other county departments Administrative Responsibilities - Prepare reports and correspondence. - Meet required state and federal deadlines. - Utilize the North Carolina ACTS Child Support System and other technology platforms. - Maintain confidentiality in accordance with state and federal laws. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Successful candidates should possess: - Knowledge of North Carolina Child Support Enforcement policies and procedures. - Working knowledge of applicable North Carolina General Statutes. - Knowledge of court processes and legal documentation. - Strong investigative and interviewing skills. - Ability to interpret laws, regulations, and policies. - Excellent organizational and time management skills. - Strong written and verbal communication abilities. - Ability to de-escalate difficult situations with professionalism. - Ability to analyze complex case information and make sound decisions. - Ability to maintain confidentiality. - Proficiency with Microsoft Office and case management software. - Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, a…