Economic Assistance Benefits Specialist

the South Dakota State Government•Rapid City, SD

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Social Services (DSS), Division of Economic Assistance, is hiring a full-time specialist to serve the public in Rapid City, South Dakota. The role assesses and analyzes individuals’ and families’ life circumstances and financial capabilities to determine appropriate assistance and services for low-income households. This includes interviewing and counseling clients, identifying available resources, obtaining records, verifying collateral information, and determining eligibility for multiple social service programs. The specialist also responds to public inquiries and interprets applicable rules, regulations, and policies so benefits and services are provided effectively and promptly to support basic self-sufficiency. DSS describes its work as strengthening and supporting South Dakota families while treating people with dignity, fairness, and respect. The department emphasizes creativity, making a difference, professional development, teamwork, and collaboration. The position calls for compassion, dependability, organization, initiative, sound judgment, and effective communication with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. The position is 40 hours per week. Applicants must apply online and attach a resume. A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted if the applicant has one, but it is not required for consideration. The position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference. The State does not sponsor work visas; hires must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete Form I-9, with employment verification conducted through E-Verify.

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.
Communicate effectively and efficiently.
Plan and organize work activities, adjust to multiple demands, and prioritize tasks to complete assignments and meet deadlines.
Demonstrate compassion, respect, courtesy, and tact when interacting with others.
Display confidence and innovation despite adversity.
Understand concepts related to client confidentiality.
Comprehend, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
Prepare clear and concise documentation, reports, and correspondence that reflect relevant facts.
Take initiative with minimal supervision.
Demonstrate a strong work ethic and comprehension of critical-thinking and problem-solving techniques.

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 is preferred.
Experience in health care administration, finance, accounting, or insurance is preferred.
A National Career Readiness Certificate may be submitted with the application, but is not required.

Responsibilities

Assess and analyze clients’ life circumstances and financial capabilities to determine appropriate assistance and services.
Interview and counsel individuals and families and identify available resources.
Obtain records and verify collateral information.
Determine eligibility for multiple social service programs.
Respond to public inquiries about social services and benefits.
Interpret rules, regulations, and policies to ensure benefits and services are provided appropriately and promptly.
Prepare clear and concise documentation, reports, and correspondence reflecting relevant facts.
Plan and organize work, prioritize tasks, adjust to multiple demands, and meet schedules and deadlines.
Establish and maintain effective, collaborative working relationships with stakeholders.
Protect and understand client confidentiality.