Benefit Programs Specialist IV

Virginia Department of Social Services•Front Royal, VA

13d

About The Position

This role is a leadership position within the benefit programs occupational group, focusing on Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) and Long-Term Care (LTC) Medicaid. The Benefit Programs Specialist IV acts as the ultimate subject matter expert, guiding peers through complex financial scenarios, collaborating with external entities like nursing facilities and legal representatives, and ensuring holistic care for clients. This position involves leading by example, mentoring colleagues, and handling the most intricate case assignments. The Benefit Programs Specialist IV is distinguished from a supervisor by spending less time on direct personnel management and more time on expert case consultation and complex case work.

Requirements

Deep knowledge of Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) programs.
Absolute mastery of ABD/LTC policy and VaCMS.
Approachable, patient, and genuinely excited to share knowledge.
Proven experience as an eligibility worker within a Virginia DSS office.
Track record of handling advanced caseloads.
Willingness to complete all required advanced employee development and specialized state-level training milestones.
Must pass a standard criminal history background check.
Must pass a Child Protective Services (CPS) clearance check.
Comprehensive knowledge of applicable laws, codes, policies, and procedures, including civil and Circuit Court procedures.
Comprehensive knowledge of basic human behavior, social problems and resources, and interviewing techniques.
Comprehensive knowledge of social, economic, health, and cultural factors which can serve as barriers to employment.
Comprehensive knowledge of counseling techniques.
Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.
Same as required in Benefit Program Specialist III with additional work experience in a leadership role and benefit programs OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Responsibilities

Provide individual or group training to staff.
Design informational binders and quick-reference guides.
Review case files for accuracy and ensure deadlines are met.
Conduct comprehensive case reads on 25% of all files handled by probationary employees.
Maintain office operations by ensuring staff coverage and managing workload balance.
Step in as the back-up supervisor when needed.
Work on complex, high-stakes cases, analyzing financial documents such as deeds, trusts, and portfolios.
Respond to public inquiries.
Explore alternative income sources for clients.
Partner with local community organizations to ensure families receive holistic care.
Serve as lead worker and provide training and guidance to other Benefit Programs Specialists.
Serve as support for the supervisor by performing tasks such as ensuring staff coverage, workload balance, training staff, reviewing case files, and providing backup supervision of staff.
Provide consultation on complex cases and work on complex case assignments which require dealing with information that is sensitive and confidential.