Benefit Programs Specialist II

Job Description  –  This is a sensitive and essential position. Conducts interviews, evaluates qualifications for financial assistance programs based on information from customers, and makes eligibility determinations in accordance with federal and/or state policies and guidelines for participation in SNAP/Medicaid/TANF and other financial programs. Information is entered into VDSS or county systems (VaMMIS/VaCMS/Thomas Brothers). Submit local reports as needed and necessary. Explains responsibilities, rights, and program availability to customers. Reviews VDSS broadcasts. Refers suspected fraud cases to Fraud Investigator. Provides emergency shelter duty in times of emergencies and/or natural disaster.

Qualifications – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA’s):  Working knowledge of: practices of public service organizations; economic and basic human behavior; financial assistance programs sufficient to determine/re-determine eligibility for benefits; eligibility requirements for social service assistance as outlined by State, Local and Federal guidelines, regulations and policies; mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages to solve mathematical problems; and interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation. Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software. Ability to comprehend and apply policies and regulations for public assistance programs, sufficient to make eligibility determinations. Ability to schedule and manage own workload sufficient to meet deadlines for completion of job responsibilities. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with broad spectrum of individuals to include customers, employers, courts and medical professionals in person and on the phone. Must be able to gather information, analyze information, complete mathematical computations, evaluate client ownership share in situations, make eligibility determinations, and make referrals. Must have good sound judgement, maintain professional ethics, problem solving, emotional stability and maturity, ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities. Must have a positive attitude, helpful demeanor, and exhibit a professional working relationship with staff, clients, and the community.    

Qualifications – Education, Experience, Licensure, and Certification:  High school diploma supplemented with additional training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities    

VDSS is one of the largest Commonwealth agencies, partnering with 120 local departments of social services, along with faith-based and non-profit organizations, to promote the well-being of children and families statewide. We proudly serve alongside nearly 13,000 state and local human services professionals throughout the Social Services System, who ensure that thousands of Virginia's most vulnerable citizen have access to best services and benefits available to them.