Benefit Programs Specialist II represents the full-performance level in the Benefit Programs Specialist occupational group. Employees’ responsibilities are related to the determination and re-determination of eligibility of individuals and families for financial assistance, SNAP, medical assistance, and for other social services’ benefit programs. The work is performed within established policies, procedures and guidelines, but certain aspects of eligibility determination require independent judgment, especially as related to evaluation of social factors influencing eligibility. Employees seek supervisory help for difficult or unusual situations only. Interviews persons for assistance, obtains necessary information, and re-determines their continuing eligibility; explains benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance; processes applications for financial assistance and diversion; determines eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods; interprets policies and procedures applicable to the various programs; monitors cases for changes in recipient circumstances, and implements changes to appropriately reflect benefit level within guidelines; evaluates employability status of clients and explores potential sources of income; explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability; refers clients to service worker as the result of overall assessment of situation; prepares reports and maintains client records; identifies possible fraud and makes appropriate referrals; evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy; explains programs and rights/responsibilities of applicants and recipients; explores other possible sources of income; computes assistance plans; determines the amount of allowances for special circumstance items such as household equipment; identifies clearly discernible social problems and makes referrals to Family Services Specialists; provides applicants or recipients with information about other agencies where they may go for services as needed. Explains a variety of programs under the social services umbrella such as employment services, child support services and child care services.
Minimum Qualifications
Working knowledge of basic human behavior, computers and various computer software. Ability to evaluate consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiate its accuracy; organize information in cases; submit information within required timelines; and determine needs of individuals and make referrals.
Preferred Qualifications
High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Working knowledge of mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages to solve mathematical problems; and interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation.
Special Requirements
Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include: fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. This position is covered under Code of Virginia §63.2-1601.1 or §63.2-1720 requiring the finalist candidate to submit to fingerprinting and provide personal descriptive information for a criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange and a search of the Central Registry. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings. Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.
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