Entry-Level Eligibility & Benefits Specialist

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

Job summary

Virginia Department of Social Services seeks an entry-level Benefit Programs Specialist I to train under supervision in determining eligibility for a range of social services programs. The role begins under close supervision with a clear path to advancement as Skill II after successful training and director approval.

During training, employees learn agency policies, federal/state laws, and required ethics while developing interviewing, data gathering, and documentation abilities critical for

Qualifications

• High school diploma with additional training and related work experience.
• Experience or training in eligibility determination preferred.
• Ability to follow agency procedures and maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determine continuing eligibility.
• Explain nature of temporary assistance programs and determine reasons and need for assistance.
• Process applications for financial assistance and diversion; explain client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
• Evaluate data for completeness and accuracy; substantiate as needed.
• Compute assistance plans.
• Determine need for and amount of allowances for special circumstances.
• Evaluate social factors such as education, work experience, and social functioning; assess employability of clients.

Skills

Interviewing techniques

Data collection

Communication

Problem solving

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma with additional training/experience

Tools

Office software

Job description

Virginia Department of Social Services seeks an entry-level Benefit Programs Specialist I to train under supervision in determining eligibility for a range of social services programs. The role begins under close supervision with a clear path to advancement as Skill II after successful training and director approval.

During training, employees learn agency policies, federal/state laws, and required ethics while developing interviewing, data gathering, and documentation abilities critical for