The Benefits Counselor provides individualized counseling and education to Social Security disability beneficiaries participating in, or considering participation in, the Ticket to Work Program. This position helps Ticketholders understand how employment may affect their benefits and connects them with the information, resources, and supports needed to make informed decisions and achieve their employment goals. The Benefits Counselor collaborates with Career Coaches and other partners to promote successful employment outcomes and greater self-sufficiency. Responsibilities

• Provide individualized benefits counseling regarding Social Security disability benefits, healthcare coverage, public assistance programs, work incentives, and other employment-related resources.
• Analyze benefits records, entitlement information, and individual circumstances to determine the impact of employment and identify applicable work incentives, employment supports, and available resources.
• Educate Ticketholders on how employment may affect their benefits and empower them to make informed decisions that support their employment goals and long-term self-sufficiency.
• Review, interpret, and explain Social Security records, benefits information, and related documentation to assist Ticketholders in understanding their benefits and available options.
• Conduct comprehensive Benefits Summary & Analysis (BS&A) reports and develop Work Incentive Plans (WIP) in accordance with Social Security Administration (SSA) standards and organizational requirements.
• Assist Ticketholders in completing benefit-related forms, gathering supporting documentation, and communicating with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and other agencies, as appropriate.
• Collaborate with Career Coaches, internal and external partners, and other staff to support each Ticketholder's employment goals and Individual Work Plan (IWP).
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant case documentation in accordance with organizational policies, contractual requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Safeguard confidential information and comply with all privacy, security, and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) requirements.
• Maintain current knowledge of Social Security policies, work incentives, healthcare programs, employment supports, and related resources to ensure counseling reflects current guidance and organizational services.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, team meetings, training, professional development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Required Skills
• Knowledge of Social Security disability benefits, employment supports, public benefits, or the ability to develop proficiency through training.
• Ability to interpret complex policies, analyze information, and explain technical concepts in a clear, understandable, and supportive manner.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills with the ability to build trust and effectively support individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn agency-specific software applications.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and work independently while contributing effectively as a member of a collaborative team. Education
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, Rehabilitation Counseling, or a related field.
• Experience in Social Security benefits counseling, case management, vocational rehabilitation, employment services, human services, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC) certification required within the timeframe established by the organization.
• Maintain required certification(s), including completion of continuing education and professional development requirements, as applicable.

Pay:

$22.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching AD&D insurance Dental insurance Disability insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid jury duty Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person