Field Office - Claims Specialist

Summary

Positions under this announcement are being filled using a Direct Hire Authority (DHA)(SSA-001), open to all U.S. citizens. Selections will be processed as new appointments to the civil service. Veterans Preference and the "Rule of Many" do not apply. Telework may be available in accordance with agency policy, but this is not a virtual position.

As a Claims Specialist, you will contribute to the Agency's mission through direct and personal service to the public. This includes speaking with beneficiaries about their rights under Social Security laws, gathering facts and evidence to establish eligibility, making critical decisions to determine benefits, and using state‑of‑the‑art computer technology to access and update claim information. You will conduct interviews with the public to obtain, clarify, and verify information about initial and continuing eligibility for retirement, survivors, disability, health insurance benefits, and supplemental security income.

Additionally, you will resolve discrepancies, clarify issues, make final decisions on initial and post‑entitlement for benefits and payments, adjudicate and authorize entitlement or disallowance actions at all levels of difficulty and complexity under programs administered by SSA.

Resumes exceeding two pages will not be considered. All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date. Cut‑off dates:
First – July 20, 2026;
Final – August 15, 2026. Requirements include:

• GS‑5:
  Three years of general experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, demonstrating ability to review problems, gather data, plan and organize work, and communicate effectively.
• GS‑7:
  One year of specialized experience at the GS‑5 level (or equivalent) that demonstrates ability to assist individuals, adjudicate or reconsider claims, explain benefits, evaluate program operations, or interpret program requirements.
• GS‑9:
  Fifty‑two weeks of specialized experience equivalent to the GS‑7 grade level.

Part‑time work is prorated. Applicants must participate in a CAIP panel interview after basic eligibility determination. Passing the interview is required for full qualification. Video conferencing may be used if technically feasible.

Substituting education:
You must provide proof of education prior to appointment. For U.S. residency, completion of a full 4‑year bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required for GS‑5 or special experience substitutes. Graduate education of one year qualifies for GS‑7;
Master’s or equivalent qualifies for GS‑9. Superior academic achievement may substitute for experience. Education completed abroad must be deemed equivalent to U.S. accredited programs. Official transcripts are required.

This position is located at the Dayton‑West OH Field Office, 4375 Hoover Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45417. It is a career‑ladder position offering promotion up to GS‑11. It is a bargaining unit position represented by the American Federation of Government Employees. Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must certify registration with the Selective Service System ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).). A 1‑year probationary period may be required.

Benefits information is available at  Applications will remain on file for selection as positions become available for up to six months after the closing date. Applicants may not receive notifications of referral status until the full six‑month eligibility period has elapsed.