Benefit Programs Specialist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Performs routine professional and technical work in the Department of Social Services. Processes applications for financial or medical assistance under government programs. May deal with emotional clients, especially when benefits have been denied. Performs other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

~ Interviews applicants as part of eligibility determination process.
~ Explains available programs, rights and responsibilities of applicants and recipients.
~ Processes applications and determines eligibility for financial and medical assistance using independent judgement.
~ Interprets policy and procedures applicable to various program areas.
~ Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy.
~ Monitors cases for changes in recipient circumstances, and implements changes to appropriately reflect benefit level within program guidelines.
~ Determines employability status of an applicant.
~ Detects fraud cases and makes appropriate referrals.
~ Maintains eligibility reports and files applications for individual cases.
~ Advises clients of other available services inside and outside the agency.
~ Corresponds with families and other agencies as needed.
~ Accurately completes and submits reports for financial assistance in accordance with Federal and State deadlines.

REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES

Education:
Required: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience:
Preferred: Some experience with public assistance programs.

Certifications/Licenses:
None required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
General knowledge of effective interviewing methods and techniques. Ability to apply instructions from public assistance program laws, regulations and policies. Ability to work independently, referring to written policy and procedures to calculate appropriate benefits, seeking supervisory assistance for difficult or unusual circumstances only. Ability to organize own work in an efficient manner. Ability to analyze oral and written data, recognizing gaps and conflicting information. Ability to explain financial assistance programs in a manner that is understood by individuals of varied backgrounds. Ability to work with others using interpersonal skills. Skill in obtaining information through oral questioning, forms and documents and to assemble the information into a clear and organized format. Ability to write letters, forms and documents, using correct grammar and spelling. Ability to perform mathematical calculations accurately. Skill in the use of a personal computer.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
None.

Additional Requirements:
Subject to a complete criminal history background search with acceptable results. Must be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description.