Economic Assistance Benefits Specialist

Position Overview Full‑time 40‑hour per week position in the Department of Social Services located in Huron, South Dakota. Salary $24.76 hourly, depending on qualifications. Responsibilities This position assesses and analyzes current life circumstances and financial capabilities to provide assistance and services to low‑income individuals and their families by interviewing, counseling, and identifying available resources; obtaining records, verifying collateral information, and determining eligibility for multiple social‑service programs; responding to public inquiries regarding social services and benefits; and interpreting rules, regulations, and policies to ensure appropriate benefits and services are provided effectively and expediently to assist the individual in achieving basic self‑sufficiency. Licenses and Certifications A bachelor’s degree in social science, behavioral science, or other human service‑related fields, business administration, public administration, education, or public health, and/or experience in health care administration, finance, accounting, or insurance. Entry‑level knowledge and abilities may be acquired through any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the incumbent to possess the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Ideal Candidate Communicates effectively and efficiently. Plans and organizes work activities, adjusts to multiple demands, and prioritizes tasks to complete assignments and meet schedules and deadlines. Demonstrates compassion, respect, courtesy, and tact when interacting with others. Displays confidence and innovation despite adversity. Establishes and maintains effective and collaborative working relationships with stakeholders. Understands concepts related to client confidentiality. Has ability to comprehend, interpret and apply policies, procedures, laws and regulations. Prepares clear and concise documentation, reports and correspondence that reflect relevant facts. Assumes initiative with minimal supervision. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Highly motivated and experienced person passionate for serving the public and displays a high level of effort and commitment towards completing assignments and goals. Compassionate individual who listens attentively to others and clearly conveys information and ideas. Dependable and organized individual who effectively plans and organizes work activities. Dedicated person who will represent the Department of Social Services with integrity and enthusiasm. Individual who works cooperatively with others and promotes a friendly work climate in order to achieve shared goals. Additional Qualifications This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08. Benefits Offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS. Eligibility and Application Must apply online; email resumes or submissions will not be accepted. The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I‑9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E‑Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire. Equal Opportunity An Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr