Benefit Programs Specialist II - Intake/Ongoing

Virginia Department of Social Services; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Chesapeake seeks an Eligibility Specialist to interview clients and assess eligibility for financial and medical assistance programs. You will use VaCMS and related systems to process applications, track cases, and document outcomes while ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

Ideal candidates have 4+ years of experience, strong policy comprehension, clear communication, and a commitment to public service. The role offers a stable, mission-driven environment with competitive benefits.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED/HSE and completion of government assistance programs.
• Minimum four years of relevant experience.
• Valid driver’s license and driving record compliant with City Driving Standards.
• Must have completed state SNAP and Medicaid program training.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client interviews and assess eligibility for financial and medical assistance.
• Navigate complex benefit program policies with accuracy.
• Use VaCMS and other systems to process applications, track cases, and document outcomes.
• Make timely, sound decisions and ensure documentation is up to date.
• Refer clients to public and private resources that support well-being.
• Maintain focus on service delivery and continuous quality improvement.

Skills

Policy comprehension

Communication

Decision-making

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

VaCMS

SPIDeR

DMIS

MMIS

Job description

Chesapeake, VA, United States

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Job Info

• Job Identification 6338
• Job Category Administrative
• Posting Date 08/06/2026, 08:28 PM
• Locations 100 Outlaw St.,, Chesapeake, VA, 23320, US
• Apply Before 08/16/2026, 04:00 AM
• Degree Level High School Graduate
• Job Schedule Full time
• Minimum Salary $50,607.00
• Maximum Salary $50,607.00
• DSS Primary Work Location Chesapeake City

Job Description

This job announcement is a courtesy job post for the Chesapeake County local Social Services agency. It is not a position of the Virginia Department of Social Services or any other Commonwealth of Virginia agency. Local employment opportunities may also be available through the local agency’s city or county website/job board(s). https://jobs.cityofchesapeake.net/postings/17391

In This Role, You Will:

• Conduct client interviews and perform in-depth assessments to determine eligibility for financial and medical assistance programs
• Navigate complex benefit program policies with confidence and accuracy
• Use VaCMS and other systems to process applications, track cases, and document outcomes
• Make timely, sound decisions and ensure all required documentation is accurate and up to date
• Refer clients to public and private resources that support their overall well-being
• Maintain a strong focus on service delivery and continuous quality improvement

What We’re Looking For:

• Prior experience determining eligibility for TANF, SNAP, and Medicaid
• Proficiency in Virginia Case Management System (VaCMS)
• Strong policy comprehension, communication, and decision-making skills
• A commitment to public service and a passion for helping others

Why Join Us?

• Be a vital part of a team that supports the health and stability of our community
• Work in a supportive, fast-paced environment where no two days are alike
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth
• Competitive pay and great benefits in a mission-driven workplace

If you’re ready to bring your experience, expertise, and empathy to a team that values your contributions—apply today and be part of something that truly matters.

The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits. Please browse our Benefits Brochure, for a full list of benefits and employee perks.

Required Qualifications

VOCATIONAL/EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT: Requires a high school diploma or GED/HSE and completion of government assistance programs.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT: In addition to satisfying the vocational/education standards, this class requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience.

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES: Requires a valid driver’s license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards. Must have completed state required SNAP and Medicaid program training.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-terms department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred certification in Phase I & II Policy Training for TANF, Medicaid, and Food Stamps
• Preferred 3 years’ experience in eligibility determination for government assistance programs administered by the Virginia Department of Social Services or DSS
• One of SPIDeR, VaCMS, DMIS, and MMIS experience in determining Eligibility in the Intake/On-going unit