Benefit Programs Specialist I/II
About The Position
The Benefit Programs Specialist I/II role involves determining and re-determining eligibility for various social services government assistance programs. The Specialist I is an entry-level position focused on training under close supervision, while the Specialist II is a full-performance level role requiring independent judgment in evaluating eligibility for financial assistance, food stamps, medical assistance, and other social services. The work is performed within established policies and guidelines, with the Specialist II independently making judgments based on agency practices and mandated laws.
Requirements
- High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
- Working knowledge of mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas, and averages to solve mathematical problems.
- Working knowledge of interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation.
- Working knowledge of practices of public service organizations; economic and basic human behavior; financial assistance programs sufficient to determine/re-determine eligibility for benefits using regulations and guidelines.
- Experience providing customer service to the public including the ability to interview and gather information.
- Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software to research, scan and retrieve data, create and manipulate reports to establish, process, and maintain case records.
- High school diploma supplemented with experience in benefit programs and completion of required Benefit Program training or any equivalent combination of training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in benefit programs evaluating and processing SNAP, and Medicaid cases.
- Experience with VACMS, MMIS, or any VDSS agency related software program.
- Experience working with populations with limited English proficiency.
- Experience working effectively and successfully within a team.
Responsibilities
- Conducts interviews of persons to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determines their continuing eligibility.
- Explains the nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance.
- Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion.
- Explains client responsibilities, rights, and program availability.
- Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and substantiates its accuracy where indicated.
- Computes assistance plans.
- Determines the need for and amount of allowances for special circumstance items.
- Evaluates social factors such as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning.
- Evaluates employability of clients and explores potential sources of income.
Benefits
- Salary increase as indicated by the local department’s compensation plan.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
