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.

NCRC
: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Local Office.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

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;
• 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