Virginia Department of Social Services

General

• Interview applicants and recipients using adaptive techniques
• Determine eligibility and benefit levels using automated systems and manual methods
• Process SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, Energy, General Relief, Auxiliary Grants, Refugee Cash, and Medical Assistance applications
• Analyze information and policy to determine and redetermine ongoing eligibility
• Calculate income and resource eligibility under state and federal guidelines
• Explain benefit programs, rights, responsibilities, agency services, and community resources
• Identify social problems and refer clients to social workers as needed
• Research, interpret, and apply mandated program policies and procedures
• Maintain records and caseload integrity; identify errors and potential fraud
• Evaluate data consistency and substantiate accuracy when needed
• Respond to appeals, prepare appeal summaries and supporting documentation, and participate in hearings
• Participate in unit and agency meetings, workgroups, teams, training, and learning opportunities
• Recommend internal policy and procedure changes
• Perform related tasks as required

Benefit Programs Specialist II

• Develop and implement individualized service plans using casework methods in Employment Services, Child Care, Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care, and Adoptions
• Interpret laws, policies, and regulations for the assigned area
• Monitor, coordinate, and administer assigned programs
• Coordinate services within the area of responsibility
• Interview customers and assess education, skills, abilities, interests, support systems, and other needs
• Inform clients about service-program rules, regulations, and participation rights
• Present cases to determine appropriate services and write and implement service plans
• Provide case management and monitor compliance
• Manage program waiting lists
• Track expenditures, prepare and submit budget estimates, and ensure payment for services
• Complete federal, state, and local planning and reporting requirements
• Coordinate with agencies and participate in multidisciplinary and interagency teams
• Monitor programs in the assigned area
• Serve as a resource to clients and the community
• Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies involving protective services and/or foster care

Family Services Specialist II

• Conduct interviews to determine eligibility for assistance and re-determine continuing eligibility
• Explain temporary assistance benefit programs, client responsibilities, rights, and program availability
• Determine reasons and need for assistance
• Process applications for financial assistance and diversion
• Evaluate the consistency and completeness of collected data and substantiate accuracy when indicated
• Compute assistance plans
• Determine the need for and amount of allowances for special circumstances
• Evaluate social factors including education, work experience, and levels of social functioning
• Evaluate client employability and explore potential income sources
• Work under close supervision while training at the Specialist I level
• Independently determine eligibility and make judgments under established policies and applicable laws at the Specialist II level
• Seek supervisory assistance for difficult or unusual situations

Benefit Programs Specialist II

Family Services Specialist II

Benefit Programs Specialist, I/II