Disability Benefit Specialist
The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Portage County is hiring a 30 hr / wk Disability Benefits Specialist! This position is eligible for benefits!
What are the primary job duties?
Counseling and Advocacy
Provide accurate and current information on a comprehensive array of private and government benefit programs.
Keep regular office hours for scheduled appointments at Lincoln Center.
Develop accessible service in rural areas of the county and make home visits when necessary.
Provide information and assistance regarding how to access benefits.
Assist potential applicants for Medical Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, Social Security Disability Insurance, Food Stamps and Family Care in locating and verifying data (financial and non-financial).
Provide information regarding consumer rights and complaints, grievances and appeals at the local and state levels or beyond.
Perform necessary research/investigation in individual cases.
Provide advice and assistance in preparing and filing complaints, grievances and appeals at the local and state levels or beyond.
Make appropriate referrals for employment and other disability-related counseling and services.
Consult with program attorney to determine appropriate interpretation of law or regulation and appropriate action to assist in resolution of concerns.
Refer to program attorney for consideration of representation in judicial proceedings.
Maintain confidential files documenting all actions taken and follow up thoroughly until resolution of problem.
Provide information on current benefits issues to target groups by making presentations in the community.
Provide information for newsletters and local newspapers; edit and develop appropriate news releases.
Plan and Implement Systems and Strategies for Service Improvement
Develop activities which will expand and enhance Benefit Specialist services.
Develop public relations effort to make people aware of service.
Provide consumers with training and technical assistance in developing self-advocacy skills.
Evaluate service effectiveness and make appropriate changes.
Identify concerns and problems of individuals with disabilities and related system level issues. Present that information to appropriate organizations.
What are the minimum qualifications?
Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a health or human services related field, and at least one year of experience working with adults with developmental or physical disabilities or mental illness required.
Experience with Social Security, Medicare, Medical Assistance, SSI or as paralegal helpful.
Experience in program planning and development necessary.
Portage County offers an AWESOME benefit package, which includes the following;
Vacation – available on day one!
Health insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with a High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a PPO Co-pay plan)
Health insurance starting at $19.15 a paycheck!
Wellness incentive plan offered with health insurance enrollment! Earn up to $600 per year!
Flexible spending account
Dental insurance
State of Wisconsin Retirement Plan – County contribution of 6.80%!
Paid holidays
Paid sick leave
Life insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
Long term disability insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hrs/wk)
EAP (Employee Assistance Plan) – paid by the County
457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
Portage County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
Deadline Note: