Benefit Programs Specialist IV

Benefit Programs Specialist IV represents the leadership

level in the occupational group. Employees perform responsible lead work related to

benefit programs. Employees are responsible for serving as lead worker and

providing training and guidance to other Benefit Programs Specialists. Employees

serve 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. Employees may provide consultation on complex cases and

may also work on complex case assignments which require dealing with information

that is sensitive and confidential. Employees work 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 is distinguished from the Benefit Programs

Supervisor by the latter’s spending a majority of time in supervisory activities such as handling personnel issues, problems, and evaluating the work of others.

General Work Tasks (Illustrative Only) – Serves as lead worker and assists supervisor by conducting program training for staff, reviewing case files and providing back-up supervision of staff; Serves as a resource to staff by answering questions related to policies and procedures, suggesting effective methods of case management, and providing consultation regarding complex cases; Prepares case records and reports; Works on the most complex and sensitive cases; Interprets policies and procedures applicable to the various benefit programs, assists staff and clients in issues related to initial and continuing determination of eligibility of individuals and families; Collects and compiles statistics from caseloads; Provides training to other eligibility workers on an individual or group basis; Coordinates training programs and orientation for new employees and clients; Explores alternative sources of income and assistance; Responds to inquiries from the public concerning public assistance programs and eligibility requirements; Ensures that established deadlines are met; Prepares monthly reports and maintains records of activities; Assists in training new staff on policy and procedural matters; and Coordinates and interacts with other community resources and partners to assist clients in meeting assessed needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge - Comprehensive knowledge of: applicable laws, codes, policies, and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities-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.

Skills - Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.

Abilities - Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.

Education and Experience - Same as required in Benefit Program Specialist III with additional work experience in a leadership role and benefit programs OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

Special Requirements : Applicants are subject to a DMV driving record check, Child Abuse Central Registry check, criminal history search and/or pre-employment drug screening. The background investigation may include: fingerprint checks, employment verification and references, verification of education relevant to employment, credit checks relevant to employment and other background information requested by the hiring authority. Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency.

Special Instructions to Applicants : An application, resume and cover letter are required. Applicants are encouraged to provide a complete listing of work experience (including periods of unemployment) and qualifications on the application. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and resume. Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, emailed, faxed or hand-delivered will not be accepted.