Benefit Programs Specialist (CD)

Hanover County Government•Ashland, VA

13h•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a paraprofessional position. The incumbent performs routine tasks to determine a customer's eligibility for Social Services benefits, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Child Care, Medicaid, and Auxiliary Grants. The Benefit Programs Specialist position is part of Hanover County's Career Development Program (CD). The Benefit Programs Specialist has four levels ranging from Benefit Programs Specialist I to Benefit Programs Specialist - Senior. The incumbent reports to a Benefit Programs Supervisor or Benefit Programs Manager and supervises no staff.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge in applicable laws, codes, public assistance program policies, regulations, and procedures, including Civil and Circuit Court procedures
Comprehensive knowledge in human behavior, social challenges and resources
Comprehensive knowledge in social, economic, health, and cultural factors that may act as barriers to employment, along with effective counseling strategies
Comprehensive knowledge in financial assistance programs sufficient to assess eligibility for benefits
Comprehensive knowledge in human services programs and their interrelationships
Comprehensive knowledge in strategic planning processes
Comprehensive knowledge in mathematical concepts including percentage calculations, formulas, and averages used to solve mathematical problems
Comprehensive knowledge in operation of a personal computer and the relevant office and agency software
Ability to independently assess eligibility by applying policies, rules, and regulations
Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, with a diverse range of individuals, including clients, employers, courts, and medical professionals, through in-person interactions and by telephone
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, public and private agencies, associates, and the general public in a positive and productive manner
High school diploma or equivalent required
Must obtain valid Driver's License within 30 days of employment to be eligible to operate a county vehicle
Mandatory participation in the Citizen Emergency Response On-call Plan

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree preferred
Recent eligibility and/or social services experience desired
Work experience in a leadership role and benefit programs (for Senior worker)
Higher levels on the Career Ladder require additional education, experience and training.

Responsibilities

Conduct applicant interviews to determine eligibility for assistance and determine their continuing eligibility
Explain nature of benefit programs and determine reasons and need for assistance
Process applications for financial assistance and diversion
Explain client responsibilities, rights and program availability
Determine eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods
Evaluate consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy
Interpret policies and procedures applicable to the various programs
Monitor cases for changes in recipient circumstances, and implement changes to appropriately reflect benefit level within guidelines
Evaluate employability status of clients and explore potential sources of income
Refer clients to service workers as the result of overall assessment of situation
Prepare reports and maintain client records
Identify possible fraud and make appropriate referrals
Compute assistance plans
Determine the number of allowances for special circumstance items such as household equipment
Identify discernible social problems and make referrals to Social Workers
Provide applicants or recipients with information about other agencies where they may go for services as needed
Explain a variety of programs under the Social Services umbrella, such as employment services, child support services, and child care services
Determine the need for and number of allowances for special circumstance items
Evaluate social factors, such as education, work experience, and levels of social functionality
Contact vendors for services and ensure payments to allow for the restoration or continuation of services.
Monitor efficiency, trends of programs, and complete seasonal, quarterly, and yearly reporting
Prepare quality control reporting and communicate recommendations to the direct supervisor
Participate in task forces, contribute to strategic planning, mentor volunteers, students, and new employees, deliver instructional guidance, and engage in community outreach initiatives
Review cases for accuracy, identify errors/problems in caseloads, and identify the source of the errors/problems
Provide statistical data and other relevant support information related to the budget
Document data and information collected, compare the findings with established program eligibility guidelines, and perform follow-up as needed
Manage a caseload of clients receiving public assistance with complex issues
Provide guidance to staff and the public regarding public assistance programs and eligibility criteria
Coordinate training programs and onboarding sessions for new employees and clients
Ensures that established deadlines are met
Coordinate and collaborate with community resources and partners to support clients in addressing their identified needs
Perform related work as assigned.