Senior Public Benefits Program Specialist

Loudoun County Government; Leesburg (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Loudoun County Government is seeking a Senior Public Benefits Specialist to determine eligibility for TANF, SNAP, Medical Assistance, and long-term care. The role requires conducting interviews, gathering verification, and applying state and federal policies to ensure accurate determinations from Leesburg or Sterling offices.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree with four years of related experience, strong interviewing and case management skills, and the ability to mentor peers.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of TANF, SNAP, Medical Assistance, LTC, and related policies.
• Experience with automated eligibility systems and program administration.
• Strong interviewing, case management, and service coordination skills.
• Ability to explain complex policies clearly.

Responsibilities

• Determine eligibility for TANF, SNAP, Medical Assistance, and LTC.
• Conduct applicant interviews and verify required documentation.
• Complete timely eligibility determinations and maintain case documentation.
• Collaborate with VIEW and other departments to support self-sufficiency.

Skills

Interviewing techniques

Case management

Policy interpretation

Communication skills

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Loudoun County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country, known for its excellent quality of life and strong economy, while embracing its historic presence. Located 35 miles west of Washington DC, Loudoun County offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. Loudoun County Department of Family Services seeks a dedicated, professional candidate for its Senior Public Benefits Specialist role. The successful candidate will join the Public Assistance and Supports Division and the diverse department that envisions better health, safety, and well-being for all. The Department supports individuals and families in the community to live their best lives while advocating for those most vulnerable and respecting their right to self-determination.

This position is responsible for determining eligibility for complex public assistance programs, with a primary focus on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care, and Medical Assistance programs. Responsibilities include independently conducting interviews with applicants and recipients, gathering and evaluating required verification, interpreting and applying state and federal policy, and completing timely and accurate eligibility determinations.

The Public Benefits Specialist IV is responsible for processing applications, conducting redeterminations, taking timely action on reported changes, maintaining thorough case documentation, and ensuring ongoing eligibility and program compliance. Cases assigned to this position are complex in nature and require a high level of technical expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

In addition to eligibility determination responsibilities, this position collaborates closely with other programs and service areas within the Department, including the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work (VIEW), to support participant engagement, communicate changes affecting eligibility or participation, and promote pathways toward self-sufficiency. The position plays a critical role in connecting individuals and families to resources and services that foster long-term stability and economic independence. As a senior member of the Public Benefits Unit, the Public Benefits Specialist IV serves as a subject matter expert, providing technical guidance and support to other Public Benefits Specialists, assisting with training and mentoring activities, and providing backup coverage for supervisory functions as needed.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Comprehensive knowledge of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical Assistance programs, Long Term Care (LTC) and related federal and state policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of automated eligibility systems and technology used to administer public assistance programs.
• Knowledge of case management principles, interviewing techniques, and service coordination practices.
• Skill in conducting comprehensive interviews to assess eligibility, identify barriers to self-sufficiency, and gather information necessary to support participant success.
• Skill in providing effective case management and fostering participant engagement in program requirements and supportive services.
• Skill in interpreting and applying complex laws, regulations, and policies to determine eligibility and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to exercise sound judgment in complex situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain complex policies in a clear and understandable manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, community partners, coworkers, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to mentor peers, share technical expertise, and contribute to the overall success of the Public Benefits Unit.

Join a team dedicated to strengthening families, promoting self-sufficiency, and delivering high-quality public services that make a meaningful difference in our community.

Bachelor’s degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred:

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Public Benefits policy knowledge and experience processing SNAP, Medical Assistance, TANF, and Refugee Assistance applications and renewals.

Pass pre-employment background to include criminal, credit, Child Protective Services (CPS), and DMV. Valid driver’s license and good driving record (driving records may be reviewed annually for continued qualification). Hold or obtain certifications required by the Department.

Special Requirements:

• These positions may be located at our Leesburg or Sterling office and may be assigned and required to work at an alternate work site(s) to carry out duties that support the needs of the County.
• The successful candidate may be required to perform work that involves crisis situations and is required to make decisions involving people, resources, and property.