Virginia Department of Corrections

General

• Conducts interviews of persons to determine eligibility for assistance.
• Explains nature of temporary assistance benefit programs.
• Processes applications for financial assistance and diversion.
• Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured.
• Computes assistance plans.
• Evaluates employability of clients and explores potential sources of income.

Benefit Programs Specialist I/II

• Interviews applicants/recipients and determines eligibility for assistance
• Processes applications for benefit programs such as SNAP and Medicaid
• Explains available benefit programs and makes referrals to social workers
• Maintains records according to established guidelines and identifies errors or potential fraud
• Responds to appeal requests and prepares supporting documentation
• Participates in unit and agency meetings and shares knowledge and information
• Recommends changes in internal policies based on experience and knowledge.

Benefit Programs Specialist II – Medicaid

• Represents the entry-level employees working under close supervision while being trained in program areas, specifically Foster Care and Adoption.
• Performs routine- to journey-level casework activities and the casework usually is reviewed by the supervisor prior to implementing a case action.
• Upon completion of the training program and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase as defined by the local agency compensation plan.
• Interprets laws, policies and regulations as applied to specific area of responsibility.
• Monitors, coordinates and administers specific programs as assigned.
• Coordinates services within specific area of responsibility.
• Interviews and assesses customer needs and other relevant factors – such as education/skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
• Informs clients of related service programs rules/regulations, and right to participate.
• Presents cases to determine appropriate services and writes/implements service plans.
• Provides case management services to monitor compliance.
• Manages program waiting lists.
• Tracks expenditures, prepares/submits budget estimates and ensures payment for services.
• Completes necessary federal, state and local planning and reporting requirements.
• Coordinates with other agencies and participates in multi-disciplinary and interagency teams providing services to customers.
• Conducts overall monitoring of programs in specific area of responsibility.
• Serves as a resource to clients and the community in the area of expertise.
• Provides after-hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care.