Hiring Range: $32,415 to Based on Experience Full Time or Part Time: Full Time Additional Detail Title Description- 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 the Energy Assistance Program . 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 energy assistance and re-determines their continuing eligibility;
- Explains nature of energy assistance benefit programs and determines reasons and need for assistance;
- Processes applications for energy assistance;
- Evaluates consistency and completeness of data secured, and where indicated substantiates its accuracy;
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. Minimum Qualifications:Preferred Qualifications: Prefer experience in working at a local department of social services. Special Requirements: Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search,DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen. The investigation may include: fingerprint checks (State Police,FBI), local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screenings. Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. Special Instructions to Applicants: Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application/resume.