Benefit Programs Specialist II

City of Richmond•Va 23219, VA

13d

About The Position

The City of Richmond Department of Social Services is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist II with strong customer service, time management, computer, analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills, along with prior benefits experience. The position assesses eligibility and administers public assistance programs in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines. The anticipated hiring range is $55,000–$70,000. Employees of the Department of Social Services are considered essential personnel and may be required to work during inclement weather and declared emergencies. The role may also participate in Mass Care Center operations during incidents or declared emergencies for the duration of the event, as needed.

Requirements

Associate degree (A.S. or A.A.) in Human Services, Social Work, Business Administration, or a related field.
One year of demonstrated experience, preferably in a human services environment involving administration of benefit programs and benefit eligibility determination.
An equivalent combination of training and experience may be accepted, subject to department approval.
Considerable knowledge of benefit programs and eligibility policies, including relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
Knowledge of programs, policies, and procedures such as Medicaid and Auxiliary Grants; relevant theories and behavior models such as Family Systems; and trends and behaviors affecting human services delivery, including poverty and homelessness.
Knowledge of community resources and support, and case management techniques, principles, and practices.
Demonstrated skills in Microsoft Office Suite, social perceptiveness, conflict resolution, record keeping, basic mathematical computation, reading comprehension, oral and written communication, and customer service.
Ability to interpret and apply policy and stay current with policy changes and guidance.
Ability to communicate information and ideas clearly and to listen to and understand information and ideas.
Ability to apply general rules to specific problems, show sensitivity and empathy, and manage time effectively.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual experience.
Three or more years of experience processing benefit programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, ABD, or LTC in a social services environment.

Responsibilities

Interview applicants and recipients for public assistance programs to assess family circumstances under federal, state, and local guidelines.
Evaluate applicant eligibility using policy manuals, procedures, and guidelines.
Interpret and implement federal and state benefit program regulations and guidelines.
Process benefit applications.
Manage caseloads for applicants and recipients of federally, state, and locally funded programs.
Compile data and maintain statistical reports on caseloads to ensure compliance with policies and procedures.
Collect and verify data to calculate benefit payment amounts.
Update client information in systems and adjust benefits when client status changes.
Refer customers to resources and services within the City and at outside agencies.
Educate customers about their rights and responsibilities.
Verify information through correspondence, telephone, and in-person interviews.
Prepare case narratives and documentation.
Participate in Mass Care Center operations during incidents or declared emergencies as needed for the duration of the event.
Perform other related duties as required.