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- Tasks: Help people access social services and determine eligibility for assistance programs.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, training opportunities, and potential for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping individuals navigate essential support systems.
- Qualifications: High school diploma and a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Great entry-level role with room to grow into a full-time position.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 16 £ per hour.
Benefit Programs Specialist I represents the entry level in the occupational group for employees working under close supervision while being trained in determining eligibility for a variety of social services government assistance programs. Upon recommendation by the supervisor, approval by the director, and successful completion of the training program, the employee shall be redefined to full-performance Benefit Programs Specialist II with a corresponding salary increase as indicated by the local department's compensation plan. Benefit Programs Specialist I is distinguished from the Benefit Programs Specialist II by the latter's performing all the assigned eligibility duties independently and making judgments following agency practices and procedures and mandated federal, state, or local laws and policies.
General Work Tasks (Illustrative Only):
- Conducts interviews of persons to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determines their continuing eligibility.
- Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance.
- Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion; explains client responsibilities, rights and program availability.
- Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy.
- Computes assistance plans.
- Determines the need for and amount of allowances for special circumstance items.
- Evaluates such social factors as education, work experience, and levels of social functioning.
- Evaluates employability of clients and explores potential sources of income.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge: Some 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.
- Skills: Skill in operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.
- Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; interview, gather information, and evaluate situations; analyze information; apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form; exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions; use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access and retrieve data, create reports and manipulate data; maintain professional ethics related to confidentiality; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations.
Education and Experience: 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.
Benefit Programs Specialist I employer: Commonwealth of Virginia
Contact Detail:
Commonwealth of Virginia Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Benefit Programs Specialist I
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even former colleagues who might have connections in the social services field. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Benefit Programs Specialist I role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to eligibility determination and client interaction. We suggest role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of how you've used your communication and analytical abilities in past roles. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can effectively evaluate client needs and navigate assistance programs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Benefit Programs Specialist I
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Benefit Programs Specialist I. We want to see how you can bring value to our team, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant background!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of interviewing and explaining benefits, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect this skill – we’re all about clarity at StudySmarter!
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Abilities: We love candidates who can think on their feet! In your application, share examples of how you've used sound judgment and resourcefulness in past situations. This will show us that you’re ready to tackle the challenges of determining eligibility for assistance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’ll be good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Commonwealth of Virginia
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the various social services and government assistance programs. Understanding the eligibility criteria and processes will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Practice Your Interview Skills
Since interviewing is a key part of the job, practice your interviewing techniques. Role-play with a friend or family member to get comfortable asking questions and gathering information, just like you would in the actual job.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for this role. During the interview, focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you've successfully communicated in challenging situations.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Prepare for situational questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios related to client interviews or data evaluation, and be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making.