Disability Examiner Specialist Des Moines Polk

This position is for permanent Iowa Workforce Development Disability Determination Services employees only. Those in any other status are not eligible to apply.

The Disability Examiner Specialist (DES) demonstrates an increased level of expertise in adjudication of Social Security Disability Program claims. The DES adjudicates all levels and claim types, including special workloads and sensitive cases. They research and problem‑solve using SSA and policy resources to find solutions for difficult cases, and operate with a high degree of autonomy, completing examiner‑assisted assessments on the majority of cases.

The DES may also mentor newer examiners and support the advancement of less experienced examiners, work on special agency projects, and perform other duties as assigned.

• Adjudicate all claim types and levels, including special workloads and sensitive cases.
• Complete examiner‑assisted assessments with a high level of autonomy.
• Mentor and support newer examiners in their professional development.
• Participate in special agency projects and perform additional duties as required.

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university and experience equivalent to five years of full‑time work making disability determinations in the Social Security Disability Program.
• Experience equivalent to nine years of full‑time work making disability determinations in the Social Security Disability Program.
• Current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to four years of full‑time work as a Disability Examiner.
• Must pass Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) screening and background investigations for suitability and access to SSA facilities and systems.
• Applicants must not have a current, ongoing over payment balance without a payment plan in place. Select positions will be subject to a criminal background check.

• Greater autonomy and opportunities to advance your career by working on all case types and levels.
• Specialized workloads and challenges to apply your skills, knowledge, and strengths.
• Knowledge transfer to less experienced examiners and engagement in the success of others.
• Possible membership on various work teams if you have demonstrated proficiency of skills.