Benefit Programs Specialist I

City of Norfolk; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 49,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Norfolk’s Department of Human Services (NDHS) seeks a Benefit Programs Specialist I (BPS I) to determine initial and ongoing eligibility for social services programs by interviewing applicants and analyzing information. The role trains under close supervision and explains rights and responsibilities to applicants.

Salary range for this position is $49,152 to $56,403, with a retirement package and competitive pay.

Qualifications

• Experience in paraprofessional or clerical work with substantial public contact.
• Interviewing, information gathering, and data analysis experience.
• Educational background beyond high school or equivalent training recommended.

Responsibilities

• Verify customer statements and complete evaluations and review sheets.
• Maintain records and inform applicants of alternatives.
• Review regulations and learn new ones.
• Establish professional relationships under sometimes stressful situations.

Skills

Customer service

Interviewing

Data analysis

Policy interpretation

Record keeping

Education

Some college preferred

Job description

Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents.

The City of Norfolk’s Department of Human Services (NDHS) provides a wide range of essential services to its citizens. These services are crucial in supporting the wellbeing of the community and ensuring that all citizens have access to the resources they need. NDHS is committed to providing such comprehensive support to its citizens.

The NDHS is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist I (BPS I). The BPS 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. The BPS I determines initial and ongoing eligibility for benefits and public assistance programs and services by interviewing applicants, analyzing information, and explaining rights and responsibilities, and interpreting policies.

Department Hiring Salary Range: $49,152 - $56,403

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Processes cases by verifying customer statements, completing evaluations and review sheets, setting up records and files, keeping applicants informed, advising of alternatives, and maintaining electronic and hardcopy records.
• Keeps current by reviewing regulations and learning new ones.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with others in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations, exercises sound judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions.

Work requires education or training beyond high school graduation or equivalency which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities. Appropriate certification may be awarded upon satisfactory completion of advanced study or training. Some College (6 months or more) preferred. Two years of experience in a paraprofessional, clerical, or similar capacity including substantial public contact, interviewing, information gathering, and the analysis of data or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Valid Driver's License may be required depending on assignment.