Crime Victims' Compensation Claims Specialist

the South Dakota State Government•Pierre, SD

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is part of the South Dakota Victim Services Program (SDVS) within the Department of Public Safety (DPS). SDVS administers the Crime Victim Compensation Program (CVC), which provides financial assistance to eligible victims and survivors of violent crime for expenses resulting from their victimization. SDVS also oversees state and federal grant funding to subrecipients, primarily nonprofit and governmental organizations that provide direct services to crime victims. The Crime Victims' Compensation Claims Specialist is responsible for investigating and evaluating claims submitted to the program, gathering and analyzing information and documentation for eligibility in accordance with state law and administrative rules. This position works closely with victims and survivors, law enforcement, medical providers, prosecutors, service providers, and other agencies to obtain information necessary to evaluate claims. The position also contributes to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of the Crime Victims' Compensation Program by identifying opportunities to improve processes, build efficiencies, strengthen consistency, and enhance the effectiveness of program operations. This includes assisting with the development, review, and implementation of effective policies, procedures, and practices that support accurate, timely, consistent, and compliant claims processing.

Requirements

Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and practices related to financial documentation and review.
Knowledge of technology, databases, spreadsheets, word processing software, and other information management systems.
Knowledge of investigative and case review principles, program administration, and continuous improvement practices.
Knowledge of records management, confidentiality requirements, and the proper handling of sensitive information.
Skill to apply and interpret applicable state and federal laws, administrative rules, regulations, policies, and program requirements.
Skill to review and analyze documentation from various fields, including law enforcement, courts, funeral homes, human resources, medical providers, and victim service providers, and develop well-reasoned recommendations.
Skill to analyze data, identify trends and opportunities for improvement, solve problems, and implement effective solutions.
Skill to provide excellent customer service and communicate with claimants, stakeholders, and the public with courtesy, respect, professionalism, and sensitivity.
Skill to develop and deliver training and technical assistance to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Skill to develop, review, and update forms, policies, procedures, and processes to ensure compliance with current laws, regulations, guidelines, and best practices.
Skill to evaluate program practices and processes, identify opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness, and contribute to the implementation of meaningful program improvements.
Ability to analyze and interpret program outcomes and make recommendations for improvements.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, community organizations, and partner agencies.
Ability to accurately gather, evaluate, and synthesize information from multiple sources to support sound decisions and recommendations.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and attention to detail when handling sensitive information and complex or confidential matters.
Ability to organize work, manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing program needs.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Ability to travel regularly within the state.
Must apply online.
Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation.
All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.
The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

Nice To Haves

A strong desire to improve programs, processes, and outcomes through thoughtful evaluation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
Ability to identify opportunities to build efficiencies, develop practical solutions, and contribute to effective policies and procedures.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Proactive thinking, effective planning, organization, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.
Collaborative, adaptable, and committed to ensuring the Crime Victims' Compensation Program operates effectively, consistently, and in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and best practices.
If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application.

Responsibilities

Conduct investigations and evaluations of Crime Victims' Compensation claims to determine eligibility and compensability in accordance with state statutes, administrative rules, policies, and procedures.
Review and analyze applications, police reports, medical records, bills, insurance information, employment documentation, and other records necessary to evaluate claims.
Communicate with claimants, victims and survivors, law enforcement, prosecutors, medical providers, victim service providers, and other agencies to obtain and verify information necessary to evaluate claims.
Review, approve, or deny claims and eligible expenses and ensure payments are processed accurately and in accordance with program requirements.
Identify missing, conflicting, or insufficient information and conduct appropriate follow-up to obtain necessary documentation or clarification.
Maintain accurate, thorough, and confidential case records and prepare correspondence, investigative findings, and recommendations regarding claims.
Develop and maintain effective working relationships with law enforcement, prosecutors, victim service providers, medical providers, and other stakeholders to increase awareness of the Crime Victims' Compensation Program and ensure eligible victims and survivors are informed about available benefits and how to apply.
Develop and provide training, technical assistance, and program information to stakeholders regarding Crime Victims' Compensation eligibility, benefits, application requirements, and procedures.
Participate in stakeholder meetings, workgroups, and outreach activities to strengthen awareness of and access to the Crime Victims' Compensation Program.
Evaluate program operations, policies, and processes and identify opportunities to improve program effectiveness, increase efficiency, strengthen consistency, and improve the experience of claimants.
Assist in developing, reviewing, and implementing policies, procedures, forms, and processes to support accurate, timely, consistent, and compliant administration of the Crime Victims' Compensation Program.
Participate in ongoing training related to applicable state and federal requirements, investigative practices, trauma-informed approaches, victim/survivor-centered practices, and Crime Victims' Compensation best practices.
Provide cross-program support to the SDVS grants team, as needed, including assisting with reimbursement reviews, data analysis, development of program guidance and training materials, and other grant administration activities.
Other duties as assigned.