Benefit Programs Specialist I

Louisa County•Louisa County, VA

About The Position

The Benefit Programs Specialist I is an entry-level position in the Benefit Programs Specialist occupational group. Reporting directly to the Benefit Programs Unit Manager, the Specialist determines and re-determines eligibility for individuals and families seeking financial assistance, food stamps, medical assistance, and other social services benefit programs. Work is performed under established policies, procedures, and guidelines, with independent judgment required for some eligibility decisions, particularly when evaluating social factors that affect eligibility. Employees may also be required to staff Emergency Shelter Operations as needed. Upon recommendation by the Unit Manager, approval by the Director, and successful completion of the training program, the employee will be redefined as a full-performance Benefit Programs Specialist II. The position requires a high school diploma supplemented by additional training and related work experience, or an equivalent combination of training, experience, and education. Benefit-program experience and experience using computer software and hardware are preferred but not required. The work is typically performed indoors. The department is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; however, this position requires a flexible schedule that may include evening, weekend, and occasional holiday hours, as well as work during a disaster situation. The position is sedentary, involving exertion of up to 10 pounds occasionally or negligible force frequently or constantly, with sitting most of the time and occasional walking or standing. The employee is subject to indoor environmental conditions and is protected from weather conditions; no environmental hazards are indicated. Applicants must be willing to undergo criminal background and motor vehicle checks and drug testing in accordance with Louisa County’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy. A valid driver’s license is required, and the employee must maintain a driving record consistent with insurance industry standards to drive a County vehicle. The position has a twelve-month probationary period and may include other duties as assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience, or an equivalent combination of training, experience, and education that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Working knowledge of public service organization practices, economic and basic human behavior, financial assistance programs, and eligibility requirements under state, local, and federal guidelines, regulations, and policies.
Ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with clients, courts, medical professionals, the public, government officials, coworkers, and public and private agencies.
Effective oral and written communication skills and excellent customer service skills when working with a broad range of individuals.
Ability to maintain professional ethics and confidential information.
Ability to resolve issues tactfully and diplomatically in positive ways, including in stressful and sensitive situations.
Sound organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and active-listening skills; professional judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness; and ability to make independent decisions within established policies and procedures.
Excellent organizational skills and keen attention to detail.
Ability to interview, gather and analyze information, identify missing information and gaps from multiple sources, re-evaluate client situations, make referrals, and determine a client’s ownership share.
Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written directions.
Ability to create and maintain accurate, complex records; prepare reports and routine correspondence; and complete tasks accurately and on time.
Computer skills to operate a personal computer and office software and technology, maintain complete case records, and access, manipulate, and verify data.
Working knowledge of office procedures, English, grammar, and punctuation; typing, reading, spelling, proofreading, and alphabetical, numerical, and chronological filing skills.
Mathematical skills to calculate percentages, formulas, and averages and perform accurate computations.
Regular attendance and compliance with County policies and procedures for absences, tardiness, and time-off requests.
Willingness to submit to criminal background and motor vehicle checks and to drug testing consistent with Louisa County’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy.
Valid driver’s license and ability to maintain a driving record consistent with insurance industry standards to drive a County vehicle.

Nice To Haves

Experience in benefit programs.
Experience using computer software and hardware.

Responsibilities

Interview applicants, obtain necessary information, and re-determine their continuing eligibility for benefits.
Explain benefit programs and assess applicants’ reasons for and need for assistance.
Process applications for financial assistance and diversion, and determine eligibility and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods.
Interpret applicable program policies and procedures, monitor cases for changes in recipients’ circumstances, and adjust benefit levels within established guidelines.
Evaluate clients’ employability status and explore potential sources of income.
Explain clients’ responsibilities, rights, and available programs; refer clients to service workers based on an overall assessment of their situation.
Prepare reports and maintain client records.
Identify possible fraud and make appropriate referrals; evaluate the consistency and completeness of information and substantiate its accuracy when indicated.
Compute assistance plans and determine allowances for special-circumstance items, such as household equipment.
Identify discernible social problems and refer clients to social workers or other agencies for needed services.
Explain programs offered through the social services umbrella, including employment services, child support services, and child care services.
Staff Emergency Shelter Operations as needed.