Benefit Programs Specialist I

Virginia Department of Social Services • Marion, VA

8d

About The Position

Benefit Programs Specialist I is the entry-level role in the occupational group. The employee works under close supervision while training to determine eligibility for various social services government assistance programs. After recommendation by the supervisor, approval by the director, and successful completion of the training program, the employee may be redefined as a full-performance Benefit Programs Specialist II with a corresponding salary increase under the local department’s compensation plan. The Specialist I role is distinguished from Specialist II, which independently performs assigned eligibility duties and makes judgments according to agency practices and procedures and applicable federal, state, or local laws and policies.

Requirements

• High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Some knowledge of basic human behavior.
• Some knowledge of mathematics used to calculate percentages, formulas, and averages to solve mathematical problems.
• Some knowledge of interviewing techniques, including data collection and investigation.
• Skill in operating a personal computer and associated office and agency software.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to interview, gather information, and evaluate situations; analyze information; and apply common-sense understanding to written or oral instructions.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions.
• Ability to use automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access and retrieve data, create reports, and manipulate data.
• Ability to maintain professional ethics related to confidentiality.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships positively and tactfully, including under sometimes stressful situations.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants to determine eligibility for assistance and redetermine continuing eligibility.
• Explain temporary assistance benefit programs and determine reasons for and need for assistance.
• Process applications for financial assistance and diversion, and explain client responsibilities, rights, and program availability.
• Evaluate the consistency and completeness of collected data and, when indicated, substantiate its accuracy.
• Compute assistance plans.
• Determine the need for and amount of allowances for special-circumstance items.
• Evaluate social factors such as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning.
• Evaluate clients’ employability and explore potential sources of income.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED