Benefit Programs Specialist III

Virginia Department of Social Services•Portsmouth, VA

18h•$55,916 - $71,985•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for determining eligibility for public assistance programs and services, including securing and verifying case information. The role provides oversight of complex cases, coaching, and policy clarification to Benefit I & II Programs Specialists. Additionally, the position handles administrative duties for multiple benefit programs administered through the Department of Social Services. The role reports to the Benefit Programs Supervisor.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of local, State, and federal laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations governing multiple benefit programs.
Thorough knowledge of the policies, procedures, rules, and regulations of multiple benefit programs as administered through Social Services programs.
Thorough knowledge of social work principles, techniques, and practices and their application to multiple benefit casework problems.
Thorough knowledge of the forms, documents, and manuals associated with multiple benefit programs.
Considerable knowledge of other programs administered through the Social Services Department and through community human services agencies or volunteer groups.
Considerable knowledge of the social and economic factors in the community.
Considerable knowledge of the principles of supervision, organization, and administration.
General knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques of public administration.
Thorough knowledge of the literature, trends, and developments in the field of human service administration and in multiple benefit programs.
Ability to plan, direct, and coordinate the work of subordinate employees.
Ability to use the Virginia Case Management System (VaMCS), SPIDeR, VAMMIS, and other electronic sources.
Ability to compile technical information from a variety of sources and prepare clear and concise reports.
Ability to exercise considerable initiative and independent judgment in analyzing and applying standards to a variety of situations.
Ability to explain rules, regulations, and policies of multiple benefit programs in terms understood by applicants and the general public.
Ability to exercise considerable tact, courtesy, and discretion in contact with program applicants, customers, and the general public.
Ability to exercise considerable discretion in handling confidential files.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in sociology, human services, or a related field.
Considerable years of experience in human services program benefit programs or case management work.
Some supervisor or lead experience.
An acceptable general background check, including local and state criminal history and sex offender registry check.
Individuals in this position cannot be listed as having a founded child abuse or neglect complaint.
A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Nice To Haves

Any equivalent combination of education and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Responsibilities

Reviewing the daily activities of benefit program specialists and administrative support staff, ensuring adherence to established policies, procedures, and standards for multiple benefit programs.
Instructing and advising staff, and resolving problems in non-routine situations.
Reviewing individual program cases and assisting staff with difficult or complicated cases.
Interpreting policy and advising staff as necessary.
Monitoring case actions to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
Assisting in staff development and training, performance management, employee relations, prioritizing and assigning work, and related activities.
Processing applications by collecting and analyzing data from customers and various electronic sources.
Establishing and maintaining electronic files using documentary evidence to substantiate case determinations.
Identifying suspected fraud cases, preparing summaries of facts for fraud and overpayment, representing the agency in hearings and court appeals, and taking appropriate action.
Responding to state, federal, and internal case review inquiries.
Reviewing and maintaining program and policy manuals and preparing reports as needed.
Representing the agency on various committees, work groups, and organizations.
Attending meetings, conferences, and in-service training.
Responding to inquiries from staff members and the community.
Providing information to the public and employees regarding Social Services’ programs, policies, and procedures.
Performing emergency operations activities, including shelter operations and disaster relief activities.
Making service referrals within the department and to other agencies as needed.
Performing other duties as assigned, determined by the supervisor based on workload and department needs.