Disability Benefit Specialist

The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ARDC) of Portage County is hiring a full-time Disability Benefits Specialist!

The ADRC's mission is to support seniors, adults with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. If you have a passion to help others, then check this opportunity out!

Pay range starts at $29.57 / hr

What are the primary job duties?

Counseling and Advocacy

* Provide accurate and current information on a comprehensive array of private and government benefit programs.

* Keep regular office hours for scheduled appointments at Lincoln Center.

* Develop accessible service in rural areas of the county and make home visits when necessary.

* Provide information and assistance regarding how to access benefits.

* Assist potential applicants for Medical Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, Food Share and Family Care in locating and verifying data (financial and non-financial).

* Provide information regarding consumer rights and complaints, grievances and appeals at the local and state levels or beyond.

* Perform necessary research/investigation in individual cases.

* Provide advice and assistance in preparing and filing complaints, grievances and appeals at the local and state levels or beyond.

* Make appropriate referrals for employment and other disability-related counseling and services.

* Consult with program attorney to determine appropriate interpretation of law or regulation and appropriate action to assist in resolution of concerns.

* Refer to program attorney for consideration of representation in judicial proceedings.

* Maintain confidential files documenting all actions taken and follow up thoroughly until resolution of problem.

* Provide information on current benefits issues to target groups by making presentations in the community.

* Provide information for newsletters and local newspapers; edit and develop appropriate news releases.

Plan and Implement Systems and Strategies for Service Improvement

* Develop activities which will expand and enhance Benefit Specialist services.

* Develop public relations effort to make people aware of service.

* Provide consumers with training and technical assistance in developing self-advocacy skills.

* Evaluate service effectiveness and make appropriate changes.

* Identify concerns and problems of individuals with disabilities and related system level issues. Present that information to appropriate organizations.

Recordkeeping

* Complete all reporting requirements to the State of Wisconsin and Disability Rights Wisconsin on the level and extent of Disability Benefit Specialist services.

Training

* Study and keep current on changes to public entitlement programs and new legal issues of concern to adults with physical and developmental disabilities.

* Attend and successfully complete training provided by the Department of Health Services.

* When possible, attend training recommended and approved by the ADRC Director.

Coordination

* Coordinate with agencies such as the Social Security Administration, District Attorney's Office, Health and Human Services, Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, Independent Living Centers and other service providers, and relevant local/state offices.

* Refer clients to other community services as appropriate.

* Advocate/network with local bar association for pro bono services.

What are the minimum qualifications?

* Bachelor's degree, preferably in a health or human services related field, and at least one year of experience working with adults with developmental or physical disabilities or mental illness required.

* Experience with Social Security, Medicare, Medical Assistance, SSI or as paralegal helpful.

* Experience in program planning and development necessary.

* Possession of a valid driver's license and access to an insured vehicle for work-related travel.

Portage County offers a GREAT benefit package, which includes the following;

* Vacation - available on day one!

* Health insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with a High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a PPO Co-pay plan)

* Wellness incentive plan offered with health insurance enrollment! Earn up to $600 per year!

* Flexible spending account

* Dental insurance

* State of Wisconsin Retirement Plan - County contribution of 7.2%!

* Paid holidays

* Paid sick leave

* Life insurance - premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)

* Long term disability insurance - premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)

* EAP (Employee Assistance Plan) - paid by the County

* 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan

* Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

Portage County is an Equal Opportunity Employer