Client Benefits Case Manager

United Against Human Trafficking; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Star of Hope in Houston seeks a Client Benefits Case Manager to guide participants through SNAP, Medicaid, Social Security, and unemployment benefits. You will assist with applications, coordinate health records, and help participants at appointments and hearings.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in a social services field, SOAR training, and strong communication and organizational skills. Local travel across Houston is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a social services field or related area with relevant experience.
• SOAR/SSI/SSDI training or willingness to obtain training.
• Strong data entry and coordination skills; knowledge of mainstream benefits helps.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate eligibility for SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, and other benefits.
• Assist with applications, health records, and potential appeals.
• Supervise participants at appointments and hearings as needed.
• Collaborate with SSA liaisons, clinics, and partner agencies to maximize benefits.
• Maintain accurate client data in HMIS and support scheduling/education sessions.

Skills

Data entry

Communication

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in a social services field

SOAR training

Tools

HMIS

Job description

Hours: Monday-Friday | 8:30am-5:30pm | Local Travel Required Various Locations across Houston (Apartment Complexes/Offices). Current SOAR (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery) Cerification Preferred but will train.

Job Summary: The Client Benefits Case Manager serves as the primary contact for participants applying for mainstream benefits including food stamps, social security income, disability income, veteran’s benefits, and unemployment income. Supervises participants at healthcare appointments and benefit determination hearings and meetings. Works closely with Case Managers and other team members ensure accurate data collection and health information history.

Job Responsibilities:

1. As a primary contact for benefits, the Client Benefits Case Manager is responsible for the direct intervention and coordination of benefits eligibility and income levels of the clients, to include but not limited to SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, Veteran’s benefits, Metro Lift, cell phone service, etc.
2. Determine level of participant disability and eligibility for Social Security benefits and direct this process to include completing applications; obtaining health records; and finding legal assistance with appeals, as necessary.
3. Supervise and advocate for participants as they attend doctor’s appointments, determination hearings and other required meetings associated with applications for benefits (primarily social security or disability).
4. Use various strategies to increase overall participant income.
5. Foster good working relationships with local SSA liaisons, clinics, personal care providers, Goodwill, second chance employers and other agencies who provide supportive services which aid in obtaining mainstream benefits and additional income.
6. Monitor employment efforts and conduct seminars/workshops which identify and hone soft skills in order to enhance participant employability.
7. Ensure program participants are aware of the actions and conditions to maintain their income and benefits and assist them in meeting all requirements (i.e. distribute bus passes to attend job search classes to maintain SNAP benefits, etc.).
8. Maintain accurate client data in HMIS system to ensure all services and income are entered in a timely manner.
9. Conduct staff trainings to educate staff about changes in SOAR practices or benefits administration.
10. Attend all quarterly meetings and other required webinars to maintain SOAR certification.

Other Job Responsibilities:

1. Participate in Ministry and prayer activities, as appropriate.
2. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Skills & Experience: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in social services related field (psychology, sociology, theology, religion, etc.) with 6 months of related work, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Qualified SOAR training is a requirement (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery).Detail-oriented.Computer literate.Ability to utilize a variety of computer software applications.Must be able to type 50 WPM.Previous knowledge or understanding of mainstream benefits, low income population needs, apartment leasing and fair housing laws helpful. Valid Texas Driver’s License, with acceptable driving record and current liability insurance.

Positive mental attitude along with flexibility and sound judgment. Must have good oral and written communication skills and be able to communicate well with co-workers and clients. Strong collaboration skills in order to foster partnerships with other agencies service the client’s needs. Ability to meet deadlines under pressure. Strong organizational skills.Ability to work well independently as well as with others.

Be able to work respectfully, professionally and in a Christ-like manner with everyone, able to maintain required client/staff boundaries and possess a willingness to serve the Lord in a ministry that deals with homeless men, women and children.

Equipment Used:Telephone, computer, copier as well as other general office equipment.

Work Environment:A low-income apartment community within the city limits of Houston, TX.Local travel required. Shared office space with appropriate office equipment.Professional dress is expected and required.Business casual dress in accordance with the Star of Hope dress code.

Work Schedule may be subject to change to meet the business needs of the mission.

Relations with Others:This position has frequent contact with clients, staff, volunteers and staff and residents of the housing partner(s). Also, working closely with other partnering agencies—clinics, doctor offices, work programs, etc.

Physical Requirements:Ability to move freely upstairs, bend and stoop throughout Star of Hope facilities.Some carrying and lifting is required (up to 30 pounds).Possible long periods of sitting or standing.

Other:

Able to support through word and action the Star of Hope Christ-centered Mission Statement, Faith Statement, Core Principles: Pursue Christ-centered Transformation, Restore Humanity & Dignity to our Residents, Embrace Change, Show Love and Respect, and Strive for Excellence.

Date Job Description Became Effective: 1/17/2024

Star of Hope is a Christ-centered, community funded, non-profit religious organization.

The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an employee in this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications of an employee assigned to this job. I have read and agree to the duties outlined above and understand that in order to adjust to changes in business, it may be necessary to modify the job, add to or remove certain duties and responsibilities, or be reassigned to an alternate position. This statement does not alter the “at will” status of employment at Star of Hope.