Benefit Programs Specialist IV represents the leadership level in the occupational group. Employees perform responsible lead work related to benefit programs. Employees are responsible for serving as lead worker and providing training and guidance to other Benefit Programs Specialists.
Employees serve as support for the supervisor by performing tasks such as ensuring staff coverage, workload balance, training staff, reviewing case files, and providing backup supervision of staff. Employees may provide consultation on complex cases and may also work on complex case assignments which require dealing with information that is sensitive and confidential.
Employees work within established policies, procedures and guidelines with a high degree of independence, seeking supervisory assistance only in unusually complicated and difficult cases/situations.
The Benefit Programs Specialist IV is distinguished from the Benefit Programs Supervisor by the latter’s spending a majority of time in supervisory activities such as handling personnel issues, problems, and evaluating the work of others.
Represents the leadership level in the occupational group.
Employees perform responsible lead work related to benefit programs. Employees are responsible for serving as lead worker and providing training and guidance to other Benefit Programs Specialists.
Employees serve as support for the supervisor by performing tasks such as ensuring staff coverage, workload balance, training staff, reviewing case files, and providing back-up supervision of staff.
Employees may provide consultation on complex cases and may also work on complex case assignments which require dealing with information that is sensitive and confidential.
Employees work within established policies, procedures and guidelines with a high degree of independence, seeking supervisory assistance only in unusually complicated and difficult cases/situations.
Serves as lead worker and assists supervisor by conducting program training for staff, reviewing case files and providing back-up supervision of staff; serves as a resource to staff by answering questions related to policies and procedures, suggesting effective methods of case management, and providing consultation regarding complex cases; prepares case records and reports; works on the most complex and sensitive cases; interprets policies and procedures applicable to the various benefit programs, assists staff and clients in issues related to initial and continuing determination of eligibility of individuals and families; collects and compiles statistics from caseloads; provides training to other eligibility workers on an individual or group basis; coordinates training programs and orientation for new employees and clients; explores alternative sources of income and assistance; responds to inquiries from the public concerning public assistance programs and eligibility requirements; ensures that established deadlines are met; prepares monthly reports and maintains records of activities; assists in training new staff on policy and procedural matters; and coordinates and interacts with other community resources and partners to assist clients in meeting assessed needs. The Benefit Programs Specialist IV is distinguished from the Benefit Programs Supervisor by the latter’s spending a majority of time in supervisory activities such as handling personnel issues, problems, and evaluating the work of others.
Minimum QualificationsComprehensive knowledge of: applicable laws, codes, policies, and procedures including civil and Circuit Court procedures related to public assistance and caseload management best practices; basic human behavior, social problems and resources, and interviewing techniques; social, economic, health, and cultural factors which can serve as barriers to employment; and counseling techniques.
Knowledge of problem solving, motivational theories, and leadership skills.
Comprehensive skills and abilities in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software, as well as navigation of large data bases and web-based interface programs.
Demonstrated ability to manage complex cases; read and interpret public policies and regulations sufficient to make decisions independently in a variety of public assistance program. Demonstrated ability to lead, provide guidance and training to other employees in program areas. Advanced oral and written communication skills.
High School Diploma with additional work experience in a leadership role and benefit programs or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Preferred QualificationsExtensive knowledge of all, or a combination of the State of Virginia’s Benefits programs, to include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and/or other department of social services benefit assistance programs.
Direct knowledge and experience in management, direction and supervision of others, training in programs areas to other employees, human behavior and motivational theory.
Bachelor’s degree in the human services field and human services program experience in a lead or supervisory capacity or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Proficient in Virginia Social Services applications such as MMIS and VaCMS.
Veteran/Disabled Veteran (if all minimums are met) Special RequirementsApplicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check.
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.
Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. Special Instructions to ApplicantsFrederick County Department of Social Services only accepts applications submitted on-line through this posting. Mailed, faxed, hand delivered and emailed applications will not be considered. Agency will have posting live for at least a minimum of 5 business days. Applications may be submitted on-line starting Friday, April 17,2026 until position is filled. This website will provide a confirmation receipt when the application is submitted for consideration. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application/resume. Please refer to your applicant portal for the status of your application and this position. This position is not eligible for full time remote work.
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.
