Senior Benefit Program Specialist

The City of Roanoke is seeking a Senior Benefit Program Specialist to process applications for Benefit Programs through interactive interviewing and entering data into a rule-based computer system. The successful applicant will interpret, apply and explain Federal, State and Local policy and regulations; complete timely and accurate eligibility determinations for financial, medical, emergency and food assistance programs by gathering, organizing and analyzing information; manage ongoing caseload which includes frequent customer contact, implementing changes and processing periodic renewals; and identify potential services needed and makes appropriate referrals to other service components. They will also demonstrate excellent teamwork through cooperation and flexibility; assist supervisor with special projects, team responsibilities, and extra duties as assigned; and conduct training for new or veteran staff, as needed. Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university with major work in sociology or related field; one to three years related experience and/or training in eligibility work; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Possession of a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment. By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is a non-exempt position. SUMMARY Performs work involving determination and redetermination of the eligibility of individuals for financial and medical assistance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Conducts interviews of applicants to determine eligibility for assistance Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion Determines eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods Evaluates employability status of clients and explores potential sources of income Explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability Refers clients to service worker as the result of overall assessment of situation Prepares reports and maintains client records Identifies possible fraud and makes appropriate referrals Recommends changes to internal agency policies and procedures

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EDUCATION and/or

EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university with major work in sociology or related field; one to three years related experience and/or training in benefit programs or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret documents such as laws, policies, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, regulations and procedure manuals. Ability to respond effectively to inquiries orally and in writing. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Possession of a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This is a job description and not an individualized position description. A job description defines the general character and scope of duties and responsibilities of all positions in a job classification, but it is not intended to describe and does not necessarily list the essential job functions for a given position in a classification.