Benefit Programs Specialist Senior

Benefit Programs Specialist, Senior

Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others.

With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents. The Norfolk Department of Human Services (NDHS) connects eligible citizens to federal, state and local resources for food, healthcare, childcare, cash assistance, workforce development, and energy and utility assistance.

Some of the services we provide are Adult Protective Services, Services for at-risk youth and their families, Adoption and Foster Care, Resources for homeless families and individuals in Norfolk, college internships, Senior and Veterans assistance, and more. The NDHS is seeking a Benefit Programs Specialist, Senior to join the team.

The Benefit Programs Specialist, Senior position serves as a lead worker and as a resource to the Benefit Programs Specialists to provide guidance for difficult eligibility determinations and policy/procedural clarifications. The worker mentors/trains less experienced workers and support staff. The Benefit Programs Specialist, Senior may be required to process 10% more cases than the Benefit Programs Specialist. They also may be responsible for reading cases and putting in the RUSHMORE system.

The Benefit Programs Specialist, Senior interviews, reviews and evaluates information from applicants to determine or re-determine, eligibility for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid and other benefits. They work collaboratively with other employees and the public to ensure that each client is served efficiently and effectively Department Hiring Salary Range: $56,900-$65,294

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Determines initial and ongoing eligibility for benefits and public assistance programs and services by interviewing applicants, analyzing information, and explaining rights and responsibilities, and interpreting policies.
• Maintains updated and accurate caseload based upon the volume of clients who request assistance.
• Verifies customer statements, completes evaluations and review sheets, sets up records and files, keeps applicants informed, advises of alternatives, and maintains electronic and hardcopy records.
• Establishes plans for clients in establishing self-sufficiency goals for the purpose of transitioning public assistance recipients from welfare dependency by determining employability, explaining policies, procedures, and requirements, providing supportive services and establishing solutions for participation barriers.
• Works as a liaison between the city and hospital by working onsite with hospital staff to identify those citizens in need of applying for medical assistance.
• Possesses knowledge of basic human behavior with a working knowledge of practices of public service organizations.
• Keeps current by reviewing regulations and learning new ones. Maintains a current level of training and certifications in accordance with state and local requirements.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with others in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations, exercises sound judgment, discretion, tact and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions.
• Serve as lead worker and assists supervisor by conducting program training for staff, reviewing case files and providing back-up supervision of staff, supports program supervisor by performing tasks such as ensuring staff coverage, and workload balance.
• May provide consultation on complex cases and may also work on complex case assignments which require dealing with information that is sensitive and confidential.
• Will be responsible for case monitoring of state and local benefit programs.

Work requires education or training beyond high school graduation or equivalency which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities. Appropriate certification may be awarded upon satisfactory completion of advanced study or training. Four years of experience in eligibility determination for government assistance programs.

• Valid Driver's License may be required depending on assignment.