Economic Assistance Benefits Specialist

The Division of Economic Assistance is dedicated to family success and committed to excellence. We are seeking qualified candidates who share our values of attention to customer service and innovation. If you want to make a difference for South Dakota families then come join our team. This position assesses and analyzes current life circumstances and financial capabilities to provide assistance and services to low income individuals and their families by interviewing, counseling, and identifying available resources; obtaining records, verifying collateral information and determining eligibility for multiple social service programs; responding to public inquiries regarding social services and benefits; and interpreting rules, regulations, and policies to ensure appropriate benefits and services are provided in an effective and expedient manner to assist in the individual’s basic self-sufficiency.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

A bachelor’s degree in social science, behavioral science, or other human service related fields
is
preferred. B
usiness administration, public administration, education, public health, and/or experience in health care administration, finance, accounting, or insurance may be considered as applicable to the entry-level knowledge, skills and abilities.

Knowledge of:

• basic mathematical calculation methods;
• various social, cultural, economic, psychological and emotional factors influencing the behavior and attitudes of families and individuals (preferred but not required);
• principles, practices and methods of social programs (preferred but not required).

Ability to:

• prepare clear and concise documentation, reports, and correspondence that reflect relevant facts;
• demonstrate compassion, respect, courtesy and tact when interacting with others;
• gather and analyze data, reason logically and accurately, and solve problems using common sense, reasoning and resourcefulness;
• actively listen, elicit needed information, and communicate information effectively and accurately;
• plan and organize work to meet schedules and deadlines and respond and adjust to multiple demands;
• utilize computerized data systems;
• assume initiative with minimal supervision.

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE ELIGIBLE

The State of South Dakota offers paid employee health insurance plus ten paid holidays, generous vacation leave accrual, and medical, dental, vision, and other benefits. For more information visit
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus/workbenefits.aspx