Senior Benefits Programs Specialist – Public Assistance

City of Richmond; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Richmond Department of Social Services is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist II with strong customer service skills and the ability to interpret policy, manage caseloads, and ensure accurate benefit determinations.

The ideal candidate will have solid computer skills, experience in public assistance programs, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly across departments. This role supports emergency operations and requires dedication to service delivery.

Qualifications

• Associates degree or equivalent; coursework in human services, social work, business administration or related field.
• Experience in administering benefit programs and eligibility determination preferred.
• Knowledge of federal/state/local benefit programs and guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants/recipients for public assistance programs and assess total family needs.
• Evaluate eligibility using policy manuals, procedures, and guidelines.
• Process benefits applications and manage caseloads for various programs.
• Compile data and generate reports to ensure policy compliance.
• Verify data to calculate benefit payment amounts and update client status.
• Participate in Mass Care Center operations during emergencies as needed.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Social perceptiveness

Conflict resolution

Record keeping

Mathematical computation

Reading comprehension

Oral and written communication

Customer service

Education

Associate degree in Human Services, Social Work, Business Administration or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The City of Richmond Department of Social Services is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist II with strong customer service skills and the ability to interpret policy, manage caseloads, and ensure accurate benefit determinations.

The ideal candidate will have solid computer skills, experience in public assistance programs, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly across departments. This role supports emergency operations and requires dedication to service delivery.