What are the responsibilities and job description for the Benefit Programs Specialist position at Chesterfield County, VA?
Minimum Qualifications
Customer Experience: It’s Our Business, It’s Our Passion.
The Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services is hiring a part-time Benefit Programs Specialist to help individuals and families in Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights by providing services in one or more program areas such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical Assistance, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
What You Do and How You Do It:
As a Benefit Programs Specialist, you will be interviewing people and processing applications to get them connected to vital services. You may be asking them personal or difficult questions during what is likely a very challenging time in their lives, and this is where compassion and organization will come into play. Most interviews will be done over the phone, and we are looking for people who can ask the right questions and work out the best solution for our customers. But it doesn't stop there. You will assist them as they sort through the processes required to obtain services, and help explain the eligibility requirements, benefits, and procedures. You will determine eligibility for public assistance programs and will learn local, state, and federal regulations, and stay up-to date as things change. You'll refer customers to services across the county and state. Perform other work as required.
Here's What You Need:
- High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required.
- Experience in benefit programs with use of computer software and hardware required.
- Knowledge of basic human behavior; mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas, and averages to solve mathematical problems; and interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation required.
We’re Looking for Ideal Candidates Who Have:
- Bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, business, public administration, or related field preferred.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
- Knowledge of how to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with broad spectrum of individuals
- Ability to interview, gather information, re-evaluate each client’s situation, and make referrals
- Ability to analyze information and determine from a variety of sources missing information and gaps.
- Ability to use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access, and manipulate data.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions.
- Knowledge of how to establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants and recipients, other public and private agencies, associates, and the public in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations.
- Ability to provide consistent and excellent customer service and interpersonal skills to serve a culturally diverse community.
This position is a part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) and offers career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications, and experience.
Chesterfield County offers an attractive benefits package. As a local Department of Social Services, Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services may offer incentives, approved through the Virginia Department of Social Services, to candidates hired who possess additional relevant training, skills and experience. Those incentives apply to individuals who possess: a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in social work, Masters in Human Services, LCSW, Child Welfare Stipend participants, completion of COVLC new worker training or are Bilingual (Spanish & ASL).
Did you know that working for a local government provides credit towards the Public Student LoanForgiveness Program (PSLF)?
Visit careers.chesterfield.gov to view instructions and to complete and submit an application.
Shift
Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; 28 hours per week
Work Location
Social Services
Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
