Benefit Programs Specialist - Energy Assistance (Chesterfield-Colonial Heights)

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We know you: you're compassionate, detail-oriented and organized, a great listener and a quick learner. And you know what? You might be exactly who we're looking for.

Customer Experience: It’s Our Business, It’s Our Passion.

The Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services is hiring a part-time Benefit Programs Specialist to help individuals and families in Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights by providing services in one or more program areas such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical Assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Energy Assistance.

What You Do and How You Do It:

As a Benefit Programs Specialist, you will be interviewing people and processing applications to get them connected to vital services. You may be asking them personal or difficult questions during what is likely a very challenging time in their lives, and this is where compassion and organization will come into play. Most interviews will be done over the phone, and we are looking for people who can ask the right questions and work out the best solution for our customers. But it doesn't stop there. You will assist them as they sort through the processes required to obtain services, and help explain the eligibility requirements, benefits, and procedures. You will determine eligibility for public assistance programs and will learn local, state, and federal regulations, and stay up-to date as things change. You'll refer customers to services across the county and state. Specifically for Energy Assistance programs, your tasks will include processing applications for heating and cooling assistance, ensuring all required documentation (such as utility bills, proof of income, and household size) is accurately submitted and verified according to program guidelines. You’ll be expected to calculate benefit amounts to ensure eligible households receive the appropriate level of financial aid to manage their utility costs and you will coordinate payments directly with utility vendors or landlords on behalf of approved clients. As a Benefit Programs Specialist for Energy Assistance, you will provide information and referrals for energy conservation measures or weatherization services to help clients reduce long-term energy costs.

Here's What You Need:

• 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 required.
• Experience in benefit programs with use of computer software and hardware required.
• 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 required.

We’re Looking for Ideal Candidates Who Have:

• Knowledge of how to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with broad spectrum of individuals preferred.
• Ability to interview, gather information, re-evaluate each client’s situation, and make referrals preferred.
• Ability to analyze information and determine from a variety of sources missing information and gaps preferred.
• Ability to use various types of automated technology to establish and maintain case records, access, and manipulate data preferred.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, tact, and resourcefulness in solving problems and drawing logical conclusions preferred. 
• Knowledge of how to establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants and recipients, other public and private agencies, associates, and the public in a positive and tactful manner under sometimes stressful situations preferred.
• Ability to provide consistent and excellent customer service and interpersonal skills to serve a culturally diverse community preferred.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish candidates are encouraged to apply.
  
   

Real Talk:

We'll be honest-you will work hard in this job. There's a lot to keep track of and it will be hectic at times, but having a positive attitude helps you handle it in stride. Much of your job is sitting at a desk using multiple automated systems, managing a high volume of telephone calls, and using problem solving skills. That's not all. You must be comfortable with handling multiple priorities and several interruptions all day.