Benefit Programs Specialist IV

This is a technical position. The incumbent performs responsible lead work related to benefit programs. The employee is responsible for serving as lead worker and providing training and guidance to other Benefit Programs Specialists. This position serves as support for the supervisor by performing tasks such as ensuring staff coverage, workload balance, training staff, reviewing case files, and providing back‑up supervision of staff. The employee works within established policies, procedures and guidelines with a high degree of independence, seeking supervisory assistance only in unusually complicated and difficult cases/situations. The Benefit Programs Specialist IV reports to the Benefit Programs Supervisor and/or to the Assistant Director. Assists in providing emergency shelter as mandated and required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA’s) required to successfully perform the work: Comprehensive knowledge of: applicable laws, codes, policies, and procedures, including civil and Circuit Court procedures; basic human behavior, social problems and resources, and interviewing techniques; social, economic, health, and cultural factors which can serve as barriers to employment; and counseling techniques. Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software. Demonstrated ability to: manage complex cases; read and interpret public policies and regulations sufficient to make decisions independently in a variety of public assistance programs; train staff; speak in public, promoting agency programs; develop brochures and pamphlets and use audio‑visual equipment; share learned information with co‑workers; communicate effectively and diplomatically both orally and in writing with broad spectrum of individuals to include, but not limited to, customers, employers, courts, and medical professionals in person and on the phone; interview, gather information, re‑evaluate each client’s situation, and make referrals; determine a client’s ownership share in situations where multi‑ownership exists; assess client’s needs through collection and analysis of employment history and pertinent personal, family and cultural information; use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access data such as estates, retirement accounts, and real estate, reports, and manipulate data; maintain professional ethics related to confidentiality; exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions; and 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; and identify customers’ needs and explore options to address these needs within the available community resources. Minimum Qualifications (Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification): High school diploma supplemented with experience in benefit programs, use of computer software and hardware, and completion of required Benefit Programs training, along with experience in a leadership role OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must pass the agency’s background checks. Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search, DMV/driving record check. This investigation may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. All offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screening. All employees must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Driving record must meet agency requirements. Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. APPLICATIONS, RESUMES, AND REFERENCES FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY THROUGH THIS WEBSITE . A RESUME MUST BE PROVIDED WITH THE APPLICATION AS WELL . MAILED, EMAILED, FAXED, OR HAND‑DELIVERED APPLICATIONS AND RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information provided. Applications/Resumes must include complete work history. #J-18808-Ljbffr