Benefit Programs Specialist I/II

DGS Office of External Affairs; Martinsville (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

DGS Office of External Affairs in Martinsville seeks a Benefit Programs Specialist I/II to determine and redetermine eligibility for financial assistance and related programs. The role includes interviewing clients, processing applications, evaluating social factors, and maintaining case files under policy guidance.

Level I is entry-level with supervision; Level II handles complex determinations independently and with sound judgment, including potential afterhours on-call duties.

Qualifications

• High school diploma with related training or work experience.
• Experience with agency computer systems and software.
• Strong oral and written communication abilities.
• Ability to interview, gather information, and assess needs.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Willingness to participate in afterhours on-call and shelter duties.

Responsibilities

• Determine and redetermine eligibility for financial assistance, food stamps, medical assistance and other programs.
• Conduct client interviews, process applications, and evaluate social factors.
• Maintain case records within established policies and procedures.
• Work independently with sound judgment on complex eligibility determinations.

Skills

PC proficiency

Communication skills

Interviewing & information gathering

Confidentiality & discretion

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Agency software

Job description

The Benefit Programs Specialist I/II position in the Martinsville Department of Social Services involves determining and redetermining eligibility for financial assistance, food stamps, medical assistance, and other social service benefit programs. Specialists conduct client interviews, process applications, evaluate social factors, and maintain case records within established policies and procedures. Level I is entry-level with close supervision and training, while Level II is the full-performance level performing duties independently with sound judgment on complex eligibility determinations.

Key qualifications:

• High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience or equivalent combination
• Skill in operating personal computer and agency software
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, interview and gather information
• Knowledge of basic human behavior, mathematics, and interviewing techniques
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and work effectively with others in stressful situations
• Willingness to participate in afterhours on-call schedule and work in community emergency shelter if needed