Benefits Technician I - TANF/GA- Juneau

Benefits Technician I

Pay Grade(s): 7 ($25.01+ DOE)  

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Purpose: 

The Benefits Technician I performs as a responsible and professional member of the eligibility unit.  The Benefits Technician I is responsible for interviewing applicants and recipients to obtain and verify information needed to determine initial and/or ongoing eligibility for TANF cash assistance.

Essential Functions. An individual in this role must be able to perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Instruct applicants/clients in the completion of various forms and review applications for completeness and consistency

• Explain program benefits, requirements and procedures, including eligibility factors, to applicants/clients

• Determine eligibility for assistance and benefit levels using automated systems or manual methods

• Explore all possible sources of income and resources; request and verify required information within specified time frames

• Compile and analyze information to determine initial and/or ongoing eligibility

• Compute income and resource eligibility timely, accurately and completely

• Ensure clients receive maximum available benefits in a timely manner

• Plan and organize caseload, ensuring that accuracy levels are maintained and that cases are processed within the specified timeframes

• Establish and maintain multiple case files through regular updating and review; document all communications and contacts with clients

• Research information provided by an applicant until satisfactory explanations regarding eligibility status are confirmed

• Research, interpret and apply program policy and procedures

• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities. A comprehensive set of capabilities required to perform job tasks effectively:

• General knowledge of interviewing and time management skills

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships within a team environment

• Able to maintain effective working relationships with clients, co-worker, and the general public

• Analyze facts and exercise sound judgment in arriving at conclusions

• Prepare clear and concise reports

• Organize/maintain own work schedule

• Skill in the use of computers and software, such as word processing and database applications

• Knowledge of Public Assistance laws, rules, regulations, service programs, and employment programs

• Knowledge of Tlingit and Haida community and culture

Minimum Qualifications (education, experience, skills):

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

• One (1) years clerical experience

• Proficient in typing skills with minimal error 

Preferred Qualifications (education, experience, skills):

• Experience working with low income families

• One (1) year experience working in a financial assistance program

• Must be 21 years of age with a Valid driver’s license

Physical Requirements. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation:

• The majority of work is performed in a professional office setting and is generally sedentary, requiring routine walking, standing, bending, and carrying of items weighing less than 40 lbs.

Work Environment. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job:

• Some travel may be required on small aircraft or ferry.  

• Certain positions at Tlingit and Haida may have exposure to certain hazardous materials or conditions.  The supervisor will review these if applicable.