Programs Specialist

Function

Could you make a Difference Where It Matters Most? The City of Hampton is seeking compassionate, detail-oriented professionals to join our Human Services team as Benefit Programs Specialists (BPS I–IV). This posting covers multiple levels within the BPS Career Development Program, with increasing responsibility, independence, and leadership at each level. Specific expectations, qualifications, and advancement criteria are defined in the BPS Career Development Program Criteria.

The incumbent reports to a Benefit Programs Supervisor.

The Benefit Programs Specialist position covers multiple areas within the department, including Family & Children Services and programs serving the Aged, Blind, and Disabled population
. Please note that the specific assignment and role within the department may vary based on operational needs.

Benefit Programs Specialists play a vital role in supporting Hampton’s most vulnerable residents by determining eligibility and administering critical public assistance programs such as SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, General Relief, Energy Assistance, and more.

• Determine eligibility and manage cases for programs such as SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, General Relief, Child Care, Energy Assistance, and Auxiliary Grants
• Provide direct customer service using self-sufficiency interviewing and case management techniques
• Assist clients with applications, explain rights and responsibilities, and ensure timely, accurate benefit processing
• Maintain detailed electronic case records and respond to state, federal, and internal reviews
• Identify barriers to self-sufficiency and connect clients with employment services and community resources
• Conduct preliminary fraud assessments and ensure program integrity
• Collaborate with team members and, at higher levels, serve as a subject matter expert for complex cases and escalations

• BPS I requires a minimum of a high school diploma or successful completion of a GED.
• A minimum of one (1) year of full-time equivalent experience in customer service, contact with the public, and basic computer skills. Previous human services experience preferred.
• A minimum of one (1) year of DHS program experience is required for BPS II. Specific expectations, qualifications, and advancement criteria for BPS II and higher are defined in the BPS Career Development Program Criteria.
• A combination of education and experience may be considered for this position.
• Must successfully pass a Child Protective Services (CPS) and criminal background check related to this position before any offer of employment or promotion.
• May be required to possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driver’s record based on the City of Hampton’s criteria.

• Must achieve a passing score, per agency guidelines, on policy training and tests in all major program areas before completion of the one-year probationary period.
• Requires excellent customer service skills with the demonstrated ability to foster and maintain positive, effective working relationships with colleagues, partner agencies, and the public.
• Requires effective communication with internal and external customers.
• May be required to work non-standard hours,s including evenings and weekends.
• Extensive contact with the general public, related agencies, community organizations, agency staff, and other City departments.
• The incumbent will be considered “essential personnel” during City emergencies or at the direction of the City Manager, which may include long hours and unusual schedules.

This is a summary of benefits associated with permanent, full-time positions. Benefits associated with other positions can be found with specific job listings. Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following one full calendar month of employment in the following benefit plans:

• Sentara Health Plans
• EAP Provider:
  Com Psych
• Optum Rx
• Delta Dental Insurance
• Anthem Blue View Vision
• FSA Reimbursement accounts
• Standard:
  Accident and Critical Illness
• Chubb Term Life Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Virginia 529
• Mission Square: 457 / Roth IRS / Roth 457 (b) IRA

• Employees begin accruing annual and sick leave…