Benefit Programs Specialist I
Virginia Department of Social Services, Portsmouth, VA, United States
General Statement of the Job & Essential Functions
Under general supervision, the position is responsible for determining eligibility for public assistance programs and services, including securing and verifying case information. The role reports to the Benefits Programs Supervisor.
Essential Job Functions
Interview individuals to determine initial and ongoing eligibility for benefits and public assistance programs; explain program scope and eligibility; clarify applicant rights and responsibilities; read, interpret, and apply policies and procedures; secure and verify financial, social, and employment data; assist applicants in completing required forms.
Process applications by collecting and analyzing data from customers and electronic sources.
Establish and maintain electronic case files using documentary evidence to substantiate decisions and keep customers informed of case status.
Manage assigned cases by organizing workload, setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and preparing monthly reports.
Evaluate received information for consistency, accuracy, and completeness; determine client's employability; identify potential income sources and refer clients to resources for self‑sufficiency.
Identify suspected fraud cases, prepare summaries of facts for fraud and overpayment investigations, represent the agency in hearings and court appeals, respond to state, federal, and internal review inquiries, and prepare required reports.
Attend training sessions, conferences, and committees; make service referrals within the department and to other agencies; resolve a variety of customer concerns.
Perform other duties as assigned, based on supervisor priorities and departmental needs.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
General knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies governing multiple benefit programs.
Familiarity with program procedures, rules, and regulations.
Understanding of community social and economic factors.
Basic knowledge of relevant forms, documents, and manuals.
Proficiency in using computers and electronic case‑management systems.
Ability to compile technical information and prepare clear, concise reports.
Strong initiative and independent judgment in applying standards to varied situations.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Capacity to explain program rules to applicants and the general public.
Discretion in handling confidential files and in interactions with applicants.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers and the public.
Education, Experience & Special Requirements
High‑school diploma or equivalent and 6 months to 1 year of experience collecting and reviewing documentation or case management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Acceptable general background check, including local, state and federal criminal history, sex‑offender registry, and CPS background check; no founding child‑abuse or neglect complaint.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to work shelter duty during a declared emergency and perform additional duties as required to ensure citizen safety and care.
Physical Demands
Operate various automated office machines (computers, copiers, facsimile machines, etc.).
Occasionally exert up to 20 pounds of force and often use minimal force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects.
Work primarily in a sedentary setting, with periods of walking or standing for extended intervals.
ADA Requirements and EEO Statement
The City of Portsmouth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and requires the City to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are invited to discuss accommodations.
This posting is a class description and does not represent an individual position description.
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Under general supervision, the position is responsible for determining eligibility for public assistance programs and services, including securing and verifying case information. The role reports to the Benefits Programs Supervisor.
Essential Job Functions
Interview individuals to determine initial and ongoing eligibility for benefits and public assistance programs; explain program scope and eligibility; clarify applicant rights and responsibilities; read, interpret, and apply policies and procedures; secure and verify financial, social, and employment data; assist applicants in completing required forms.
Process applications by collecting and analyzing data from customers and electronic sources.
Establish and maintain electronic case files using documentary evidence to substantiate decisions and keep customers informed of case status.
Manage assigned cases by organizing workload, setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and preparing monthly reports.
Evaluate received information for consistency, accuracy, and completeness; determine client's employability; identify potential income sources and refer clients to resources for self‑sufficiency.
Identify suspected fraud cases, prepare summaries of facts for fraud and overpayment investigations, represent the agency in hearings and court appeals, respond to state, federal, and internal review inquiries, and prepare required reports.
Attend training sessions, conferences, and committees; make service referrals within the department and to other agencies; resolve a variety of customer concerns.
Perform other duties as assigned, based on supervisor priorities and departmental needs.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
General knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies governing multiple benefit programs.
Familiarity with program procedures, rules, and regulations.
Understanding of community social and economic factors.
Basic knowledge of relevant forms, documents, and manuals.
Proficiency in using computers and electronic case‑management systems.
Ability to compile technical information and prepare clear, concise reports.
Strong initiative and independent judgment in applying standards to varied situations.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Capacity to explain program rules to applicants and the general public.
Discretion in handling confidential files and in interactions with applicants.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers and the public.
Education, Experience & Special Requirements
High‑school diploma or equivalent and 6 months to 1 year of experience collecting and reviewing documentation or case management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Acceptable general background check, including local, state and federal criminal history, sex‑offender registry, and CPS background check; no founding child‑abuse or neglect complaint.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to work shelter duty during a declared emergency and perform additional duties as required to ensure citizen safety and care.
Physical Demands
Operate various automated office machines (computers, copiers, facsimile machines, etc.).
Occasionally exert up to 20 pounds of force and often use minimal force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects.
Work primarily in a sedentary setting, with periods of walking or standing for extended intervals.
ADA Requirements and EEO Statement
The City of Portsmouth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and requires the City to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are invited to discuss accommodations.
This posting is a class description and does not represent an individual position description.
#J-18808-Ljbffr