Job Description- Benefit Programs Specialist I represent the entry level in the occupational group for employees working under close supervision while being trained in determining eligibility for a variety of social services government assistance programs. Upon recommendation by the supervisor, approval by the director, and successful completion of the training program, the employee shall be redefined to full-performance Benefit Programs Specialist II with a corresponding salary increase as indicated by the local department’s compensation plan.
General Work Tasks include but not limited to –
Conducts interviews of people to determine eligibility for assistance and re determines their continuing eligibility.
Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance.
Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion.
Explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured and where indicated substantiates its accuracy.
Computes assistance plans.
Determines the need for and number of allowances for special circumstance items.
Evaluates such social factors as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning.
Evaluates employability of clients and explores potential sources of income.
Minimum Qualifications:
Some knowledge of basic human behavior, mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages to solve mathematical problems and interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation.
Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, interview, gather information, and evaluate situations. Analyze information, apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form. Exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions. Use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access and retrieve data, create reports and manipulate data. Maintain professional ethics related to confidentiality and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations.
Education:
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.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in benefit programs, use of computer software and hardware, and completion of required Benefit Programs training OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Special Requirements:
Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen.
The investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority.
This position is covered under Code of Virginia §63.2-1601.1 or §63.2-1720 requiring the finalist candidate to submit to fingerprinting and provide personal descriptive information for a criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange and a search of the Central Registry.
All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings.
May require shelter duty during disasters and/or emergencies. Employees must be able to telework if necessary. Complete a minimum of 2 hours of Community Outreach as outlined by the Agency each year. These events are held outside of normal office hours. Driving record must meet agency standard.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Applications are accepted only through this online process. Applicants are encouraged to provide a complete listing of work experience and qualifications on the application. Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, e-mailed, faxed or hand delivered applications will not be accepted.
Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and resume.
Contact
Tonda Wade
tonda.wade@dss.virginia.gov
VDSS is one of the largest Commonwealth agencies, partnering with 120 local departments of social services, along with faith-based and non-profit organizations, to promote the well-being of children and families statewide. We proudly serve alongside nearly 13,000 state and local human services professionals throughout the Social Services System, who ensure that thousands of Virginia's most vulnerable citizen have access to best services and benefits available to them.
The Commonwealth of Virginia is located in the South Atlantic region of the United States. It was the 10th state to be admitted to the Union on June 25, 1788. Home to approximately 8 million residents, Virginia is the 12th most populous state in the United States. The capital is Richmond, and its most populous city is Virginia Beach.
The narrative history of the Commonwealth of Virginia often begins with the founding of Jamestown in 1607, near what is now modern day Williamsburg, Virginia. Jamestown became the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and the Virginia General Assembly, established on July 30, 1619, is now recognized as the oldest legislative body in the western hemisphere. When Virginia became a royal colony in 1624, the robust tobacco trade that had been developing in Virginia helped establish the American colonies as a powerful economic force. During the American Revolution, Virginia witnessed the final surrender of British forces at Yorktown and later became known as the birthplace of many revolution-era figures and future American presidents, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. To date, 8 United States presidents have been born in Virginia, more than in any other state.
The modern government of Virginia is nearly identical in structure to the federal government, and is divided into 3 branches, these being the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches. The Virginia General Assembly is comprised of the 100-member House of Delegates and the 40-member Senate. A governor and lieutenant governor are elected every 4 years. Governors cannot be elected to or serve consecutive terms. Virginia’s judicial system consists of the Supreme Court of Virginia and the Court of Appeals of Virginia, the Circuit Courts, and the lower General District Courts and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts. Virginia has 13 electoral votes in presidential elections, and possesses 11 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
