Workforce Program Coordinator

Job Description

Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is seeking applicants for the position of Workforce Program Coordinator in our Unemployment Insurance (UI) Division, Integrity Bureau in Des Moines, IA.

Position Details

• Location: 1000 E Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA
• Schedule: Full-time | Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Work Flexibility: Hybrid telework and alternate schedules available after six months of employment and training have been completed.

New Hires will start at base starting wage: $30.57/hour, $2,445.60 bi-weekly, $63,585.60 annually

Position Overview Oversee the Fraud Benefit Payment Control (BPC) program within the Unemployment Insurance Integrity Bureau, ensuring effective fraud detection, investigations, and prevention of improper benefit payments. Provide leadership and guidance to investigators and staff through case reviews, audits, training, and support for appeal and prosecution cases. Ensure compliance with state and federal laws, oversee fraud detection systems, monitor program performance, and recommend process improvements. Lead initiatives to strengthen program integrity and prevent improper payments.

Unemployment Insurance Investigations (Fraud) Program Manager

• Serve under the general direction of the Unemployment Insurance (UI) Investigations Manager within the Unemployment Insurance Division.
• Manage the Investigations (Fraud) activities of the Benefit Payment Control (BPC) program within the UI Integrity Bureau.
• Plan and coordinate Fraud BPC program activities, ensuring investigations are properly assigned to appropriate staff through the case management system.
• Oversee the detection and establishment of UI benefit overpayments resulting from investigations conducted by fraud investigators.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in the development, training, and use of fraud detection software and associated programs.
• Ensure staff effectively and efficiently utilize fraud detection software to maximize return on investment.
• Conduct audits of investigations to ensure all issues are addressed and procedures comply with Iowa Employment Security Law and Administrative Rules related to overpayments and Fraud BPC activities.
• Prepare management reports detailing:
• Number of cases assigned and completed.
• Overpayments established.
• Potential overpayments prevented.
• Cases referred to prosecution and their outcomes.
• Process payment retrievals and coordinate with investigators regarding payment reissues.
• Lead the Integrity Task Force in developing new strategies and ideas to prevent improper payments.
• Support the statewide Fraud BPC program, including sophisticated IT initiatives and systems used to manage UI benefit payment records and adjustments.

Laws, Procedures, and Compliance

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of Unemployment Insurance (UI) laws, regulations, procedures, claims processes, and Fraud Benefit Payment Control (BPC) requirements.
• Provide guidance and communication with investigators, department staff, and Department of Labor (DOL) staff regarding:
• Interpretation of legal issues.
• Investigative techniques and procedures.
• Application of laws, regulations, and policies.
• Reporting requirements and standards.
• Computer systems and operational processes.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and established standards.

Investigation and Fraud Program Oversight

• Review investigator case files to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established investigative standards.
• Evaluate case documentation, identify areas requiring corrective action, and provide guidance to investigators to improve the quality and consistency of investigative outcomes.
• Assist investigators in preparing appeal and prosecution cases, ensuring case materials are:
• Well-organized and complete.
• Legally sound.
• Fully supported by evidence.
• Compliant with procedural requirements.
• Provide consultation and guidance on investigative strategies, documentation quality, and case preparation.
• Assume responsibility for the Fraud Benefit Payment Control (BPC) Unit within the Integrity Bureau.
• Provide staff direction and oversight during the Investigations Manager’s absence.
• Recommend procedural changes and assist in developing and implementing updated procedures.
• Manage assigned Fraud WPC work items, including:
• Reviewing and processing administrative penalties.
• Handling remained cases.
• Reviewing and processing employer fraud scheme cases.
• Ensure all assigned work is completed accurately and timely in accordance with agency policies and state and federal regulations.

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, the State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. No applicant seeking employment with the Iowa Department of Workforce Development can have a current, ongoing overpayment balance with Iowa Workforce Development without a payment plan in place. Select positions will be subject to a criminal background check. Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and experience equal to three years of full-time work in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.
2. Seven years of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.
3. All of the following (a, b, and c): a. One year of full-time work experience in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis; and b. A total of four years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and/or full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university coursework in business, public administration economics, planning, or a closely-related field equals one year of full-time experience.
4. Current, continuous experience in Iowa Workforce Development that includes two years of full-time work in employment interviewing, counseling, management, program planning, or occupational, budget, or labor market analysis.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Benefits

Why Choose the State of Iowa? At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise. Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!