Benefit Programs Specialist - (Chesterfield-Colonial Heights)

Virginia Department of Social Services • Chesterfield, VA

8d • $53,309 - $62,638 • Onsite

About The Position

This job announcement is a courtesy job post for the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights local Social Services agency. It is not a position of the Virginia Department of Social Services or any other Commonwealth of Virginia agency. Local employment opportunities may also be found through the local agency’s city or county website/job board(s). The Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services is hiring a Benefit Programs Specialist to help individuals and families in Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights by providing services in one or more program areas such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical Assistance, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

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 required.
• Knowledge of basic human behavior.
• Mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas, and averages to solve mathematical problems.
• Interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with a broad spectrum of individuals.
• Ability to interview, gather information, re-evaluate each client’s situation, and make referrals.
• Ability to analyze information and determine from a variety of sources missing information and gaps.
• Ability to use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access, and manipulate data.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions.
• Knowledge of how to establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants and recipients, other public and private agencies, associates, and the public in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations.
• Ability to provide consistent and excellent customer service and interpersonal skills to serve a culturally diverse community.
• Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, business, public administration, or related field preferred.
• Experience in benefit programs with use of computer software and hardware preferred.
• Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Interviewing people and processing applications to connect them to vital services.
• Asking personal or difficult questions during challenging times, requiring compassion and organization.
• Conducting most interviews over the phone, asking the right questions and working out the best solution for customers.
• Assisting customers with processes required to obtain services.
• Explaining eligibility requirements, benefits, and procedures.
• Determining eligibility for public assistance programs.
• Learning and staying up-to-date on local, state, and federal regulations.
• Referring customers to services across the county and state.
• Performing other work as required.
• Serving as part of an Emergency Shelter Team during times of natural disaster, reporting to shelter duty as required.

Benefits

• Attractive benefits package
• Multiple incentives for candidates, including having a Masters or Bachelor's in Social Work, being a Child Welfare Stipend participant, having a MHS or LSCW certification, completing COLVC new worker training and for having Bilingual (Spanish & ASL) abilities.
• Credit towards the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED