Economic Assistance Benefits Specialist

the South Dakota State Government•Huron, SD
•Onsite

About The Position

The Division of Economic Assistance seeks a specialist to assess and analyze the life circumstances and financial capabilities of low-income individuals and families to provide assistance and services. The position determines eligibility for Medical Assistance programs for elderly and disabled individuals; interviews and counsels applicants; identifies available resources; responds to public inquiries about social services and benefits; and interprets rules, regulations, and policies to ensure appropriate benefits and services are provided effectively and promptly. The role is based in Huron or Aberdeen, South Dakota, and is a full-time position scheduled for 40 hours weekly. Applicants must apply online and attach a resume. The State does not sponsor work visas; hires must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9. The State uses E-Verify upon hire.

Requirements

  • Entry-level knowledge and abilities may be acquired through any combination of training and/or experience that enables the incumbent to possess the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
  • Knowledge of basic mathematical calculation methods.
  • Ability to prepare clear and concise documentation, reports, and correspondence reflecting relevant facts.
  • Ability to demonstrate compassion, respect, courtesy, and tact when interacting with others.
  • Ability to gather and analyze data; reason logically and accurately; and solve problems using common sense, reasoning, and resourcefulness.
  • Ability to actively listen, elicit needed information, and communicate information effectively and accurately.
  • Ability to plan and organize work to meet schedules and deadlines, and respond and adjust to multiple demands.
  • Ability to utilize computerized data systems.
  • Ability to take initiative with minimal supervision.
  • Attach a resume to the online application; emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
  • Verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9 upon hire.

Nice To Haves

  • A bachelor's degree in social science, behavioral science, a human service-related field, business administration, public administration, education, or public health.
  • Experience in health care administration, finance, accounting, or insurance.
  • Knowledge of social, cultural, economic, psychological, and emotional factors influencing the behavior and attitudes of families and individuals (preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of social programs (preferred but not required).
  • Submit a National Career Readiness Certificate if possessed; it is not necessary to be considered.

Responsibilities

  • Assess and analyze the life circumstances and financial capabilities of low-income individuals and families to provide assistance and services.
  • Determine eligibility for Medical Assistance programs for elderly and disabled individuals.
  • Interview and counsel individuals and identify available resources.
  • Respond to public inquiries regarding social services and benefits.
  • Interpret rules, regulations, and policies to ensure appropriate benefits and services are provided effectively and promptly.

Benefits

  • $0 premium employee health insurance option
  • Eleven paid holidays
  • Vacation leave accrual
  • Sick leave accrual
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Other insurance options
  • Retirement benefits; position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS
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