Benefit Programs Specialist - (Chesterfield-Colonial Heights)

This job announcement is a courtesy job post for the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights local Social Services agency. It is not a position of the Virginia Department of Social Services or any other Commonwealth of Virginia agency. Local employment opportunities may also be available through the local agency’s city or county website/job board(s).

Visit careers.chesterfield.gov to view instructions and to complete and submit an application.

Customer Experience: It’s Our Business, It’s Our Passion.
The Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services is hiring a 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:

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.

We’re Looking for Ideal Candidates Who Have:

• Bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, business, public administration, or related field preferred.
• Experience in benefit programs with use of computer software and hardware preferred.
• 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 preferred.
• Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply.
• 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.

Real Talk:

We'll be honest-you will work hard in this job. There's a lot to keep track of and it will be hectic at times, but having a positive attitude helps you handle it in stride. Much of your job is sitting at a desk using multiple automated systems, managing a high volume of telephone calls, and using problem solving skills. That's not all. You must be comfortable with handling multiple priorities and several interruptions all day. Being a Benefit Programs Specialist isn't for everyone, but if you are committed to making a real difference in the lives of others and are looking for a career rather than a job, we want you on our team. Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required. A Chesterfield County application is also required and must be submitted online by the deadline.

This position is part of an Emergency Shelter Team during times of natural disaster, reporting to shelter duty as required.

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. Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Social Services also has multiple incentives for candidates, including having a Masters or Bachelor's in Social Work, being a Child Welfare Stipend participant, having a MHS or LSCW certification, completing COLVC new worker training and for having Bilingual (Spanish & ASL) abilities.

Did you know that working for a local government provides credit towards the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)?

Shift
Monday - Friday; 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Location
Chesterfield Colonial Heights Social Services

Visit careers.chesterfield.gov to view instructions and to complete and submit an application.

Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion