Eligibility Worker

Eligibility Worker (Benefit Programs Specialist II)
Department of Social Services

12 Months, Full-Time

Non-exempt, Pay Grade 29

VRS-Eligible, Benefits-Eligible

***THE LISTING ON THE ALBEMARLE COUNTY WEBSITE IS FOR ADVERTISING PURPOSES ONLY. APPLICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE VA STATE WEBSITE FOUND HERE:

https://evqk.fa.us8.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/3564

Essential Functions:

• Interviews applicants/recipients, adapting techniques to meet the needs/abilities of the client;
• Determines eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods; processes applications for benefit programs such as, but not limited to SNAP, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Energy, General Relief, Auxiliary Grants, Refugee Cash and/or Medical Assistance;
• Compiles and analyzes information and policy to determine and redetermine ongoing eligibility for financial, medical and or other governmental programs; computes income and resource eligibility timely, accurately and completely based on complex state and federal guidelines; ensures clients receive maximum eligible benefits;
• Explains available benefit programs, rights and responsibilities, other agency services and community resources identifies social problems and makes referrals to social workers as needed;
• Researches, interprets, and applies mandated programmatic policy and procedures based on state and federal guidelines in the administration of a benefits caseload which may be generic or specialized;
• Ensures integrity in benefits delivery and caseload management by maintaining records according to established guidelines and identifies errors/potential fraud and makes appropriate referrals; evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy;
• Responds to appeal requests, prepares appeal summaries and all supporting documentation, and participates in appeal hearings;
• Attends and participates in unit and agency meetings by sharing knowledge, experiences, and information; participates in agency workgroups and/or teams; attends and participates in ongoing training, learning, and growth opportunities;
• Recommends changes in internal policy and procedures based on experience and knowledge;
• Performs related tasks as required.

Competency: Knowledge/ Skills/Abilities:

• General knowledge of interviewing and time management skills and principles and practices of public social service organizations;
• Some knowledge of current social, economic and health problems and of human behavior and social functioning;
• Knowledge of mathematics to calculate percentages, formulas and averages to solve mathematical problems;
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques such as data collection and investigation.
• Ability to analyze information and policy and determine from a variety of sources missing information and gaps;
• Ability to access data such as estates, retirement accounts, and real estate,
• Ability to maintain professional ethics related to confidentiality;
• Ability to work effectively within and around teams;
• Ability to operate a computer and software;
• High level of attention to detail;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, co-workers, management and the public consistent with the agency’s Quality Caseload Standards;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships within a team environment;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions;
• Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, orally and in writing;
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports;
• Ability to organize/manage own work schedule;
• Ability to plan, manage, coordinate, and prioritize multiple and varied activities and projects.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma supplemented with additional training and related work experience, or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications/Certifications:

Strongly preferred, but not required:

• Bachelor's degree;
• Direct eligibility experience;
• Experience working effectively and successfully within a team;
• Experience working with populations with limited English proficiency.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Workers in this position are required to drive and they must meet the eligibility requirements of the County’s safe driver policy. Worker must be willing to travel occasionally overnight and may be required to assist in managing emergency shelters for the public. The candidate may be subject to criminal history and central registry background checks.
• Works with the public; works typically in an office setting and/or telework environment;
• Work is performed with relative independence;
• May involve frequent walking or standing, and light lifting;
• Regular operation of office equipment and occasional operation of vehicles;
• Daily contact with clients, families, and the community in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations.

Remote Work:

This position is eligible for a remote work schedule that is in compliance with the County’s Remote Work Policy and meets the operational and service needs for the position. All County staff must maintain residence within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Salary Range:

The hiring range for this position is $24.98 - $27.61 per hour (approx. $51,953 - $57,422 per year). Starting offer is based on applicable education beyond minimum requirements and internal equity. The position also provides excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, VRS retirement, and continuing education/training opportunities. This is a full time, FLSA non-exempt position. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Position open until Friday, January 3, 2025.

Virginia Values Veterans:

Albemarle County is a Certified V3 organization.

EOE/EEO:

Albemarle County is an equal employment opportunity employer, and does not discriminate against any group or individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age or disability in regards to any aspect of employment policy and practice: recruitment, testing, selection, assignment, pay, conditions of work, training, leave, overtime, promotion, discipline, demotion, and separation.

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• Albemarle County

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