Impactful Benefit Programs Specialist – Eligibility

Virginia-Department-of-Social-Service; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Department of Social Services is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist I to learn eligibility determinations under close supervision, gaining hands-on training in various social services programs.

Upon successful training, employees may advance to Benefit Programs Specialist II, performing independent eligibility decisions and following agency guidelines.

This entry-level role emphasizes accuracy, ethics, and strong communication with clients and partners.

Qualifications

• High school diploma plus related training and experience or equivalent.
• Preferred: experience with VDSS programs and systems (VaCMS, MMIS, SPIDeR).
• Degree in Human Services or related field, or degree with human services experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determines ongoing eligibility.
• Explain temporary assistance programs and determine need for assistance.
• Process applications for financial assistance and diversion; explain client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
• Evaluate consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiate its accuracy.
• Compute assistance plans.
• Determine the need for and amount of allowances for special circumstance items.
• Evaluate social factors such as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning; and
• Evaluate employability of clients and explore potential sources of income.

Skills

Interviewing

Communication

Data analysis

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field (preferred)

Tools

VaCMS

MMIS

SPIDeR

Job description

The Virginia Department of Social Services is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist I to learn eligibility determinations under close supervision, gaining hands-on training in various social services programs.

Upon successful training, employees may advance to Benefit Programs Specialist II, performing independent eligibility decisions and following agency guidelines.

This entry-level role emphasizes accuracy, ethics, and strong communication with clients and partners.