Disability Determination Adjudicator I

State of Vermont • Waterbury, CT

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Help make a difference! Join the Disability Determination Services (DDS) team and help determine medical eligibility for Social Security and Medicaid disability benefits. We are looking for an organized, detail-oriented individual with strong reasoning skills to review and analyze medical and non-medical evidence, make policy compliant decisions, and collaborate with medical consultants, applicants, and staff. DDS offers a hybrid telework option, requiring at least three days in the office each week. We understand how challenging learning a new position such as this can be and offer extensive support as you learn. You'll receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from experienced trainers, mentors, and management in a collaborative, flexible work environment focused on work-life balance as you learn the job and beyond. Responsibilities include: Seeking and investigating, then analyzing and evaluating, medical and psychological evidence, subjective and objective data, and medical and non-medical statements and opinions, for the purpose of concluding applicant's residual functional capacity to work. Performing duties with increasing latitude and independence of medical, judicial, discretionary and evaluative judgment as they become familiar with the job duties, medical diagnosis, treatment, severity, functional impact issues, applicable laws, court case decisions, Social Security Rulings, and regulatory and policy guidelines. Deciding initial claims, while the higher levels handle appeals and periodic reviews of eligibility as well. At this first level, the adjudicator, in collaboration with medical consultants, has discretion for the medical/functional assessment of all adult physical impairments. Receiving more input and direction from medical consultants with regard to the impact of mental impairment and childhood disability evaluation. All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation. Staff say they stay at the DDS for the supportive management team, welcoming work environment, helpful colleagues, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. If you are ready for a rewarding challenge, apply today! Who May Apply This position, Disability Determination Adjudicator I (Job Requisition #54690) , is open to all State employees and external applicants. If you would like more information about this position, please contact [email protected] . Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting. Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered. AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights. Environmental Factors Incumbents must organize and cope with highly complex, detailed information and a heavy caseload with exacting requirements for simultaneous quality, timeliness, productivity and cost-effectiveness. Duties are performed in an office setting and/or via telework. Duties are normally performed during regular office hours, but some flexibility is granted based on employee and office needs. Very occasional weekend hours may be required. Incumbents can expect to encounter emotional and stressful situations in dealing with clients with severe disabilities and financial hardship.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• Associate's degree AND two (2) years of relevant experience in a state, federal, and/or private disability benefits, or similar program.
• High school diploma AND four (4) years of relevant experience in a state, federal, and/or private disability benefits, or similar program.
• All candidates must pass applicable State background checks in accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, State of Vermont tax compliance and criminal record checks, and Federal requirements for all DDS employees, including fingerprinting for FBI clearance and a Federal Public Trust background investigation.

Nice To Haves

• Experience using multiple computer software programs simultaneously, analyzing and synthesizing large volumes of information from lengthy electronic documents in order to elicit the relevant information.
• Experience analyzing complex information and form conclusions, supporting them in a clear, concise and convincing manner.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and impairments.
• Superior organizational skills and ability to manage a high volume caseload.

Responsibilities

• Seeking and investigating, then analyzing and evaluating, medical and psychological evidence, subjective and objective data, and medical and non-medical statements and opinions, for the purpose of concluding applicant's residual functional capacity to work.
• Performing duties with increasing latitude and independence of medical, judicial, discretionary and evaluative judgment as they become familiar with the job duties, medical diagnosis, treatment, severity, functional impact issues, applicable laws, court case decisions, Social Security Rulings, and regulatory and policy guidelines.
• Deciding initial claims, while the higher levels handle appeals and periodic reviews of eligibility as well.
• At this first level, the adjudicator, in collaboration with medical consultants, has discretion for the medical/functional assessment of all adult physical impairments.
• Receiving more input and direction from medical consultants with regard to the impact of mental impairment and childhood disability evaluation.
• All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Benefits

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level