Entry-Level Benefit Programs Specialist

Virginia-Department-of-Social-Service; Virginia; On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Department of Social Services is hiring an entry-level Benefit Programs Specialist I to assist with eligibility determinations for various social services programs. Training leads to full performance as Specialist II with salary progression.

The role emphasizes interviewing, data review, and accurate processing of applications while learning agency policies and procedures under supervision.

Qualifications

• High school diploma with additional training and related work experience or equivalent combination provides required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Ability to read, interpret and apply policies.
• Ability to explain program requirements clearly and maintain data integrity.

Responsibilities

• Conducts interviews to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determines continuing eligibility.
• Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance.
• Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion; explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
• Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy.
• Computes assistance plans.
• Determines the need for and amount of allowances for special circumstance items.
• Evaluates such social factors as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning; and
• Evaluates employability of clients and explores potential sources of income.

Skills

Interviewing techniques

Communication skills

Data evaluation

Mathematics for percentages

Education

High school diploma with additional training

Job description

Virginia Department of Social Services is hiring an entry-level Benefit Programs Specialist I to assist with eligibility determinations for various social services programs. Training leads to full performance as Specialist II with salary progression.

The role emphasizes interviewing, data review, and accurate processing of applications while learning agency policies and procedures under supervision.