Job Description

Overview

Who We Are:

The Economic Services Division (ESD) is responsible for the administration of benefits to help Vermonters meet their basic needs. ESD is one of 5 divisions under the Department of Children and Families (DCF) which is one of the largest departments (1000 employees) within the largest agency (Agency of Human Services) in the state of Vermont.

ESD Leadership recognizes that the division\'s biggest resource is our staff and is committed to continuously looking at ways to strengthen and support our workforce.

This position is located in the Barre district office which is known for a positive environment with outstanding teamwork.

The Role:

The Benefit Programs Specialists (BPS) primary role is to determine eligibility of those who have applied for benefits. The BPS is also responsible for providing timely and accurate benefits to those who meet the criteria. ESD is looking for someone to join the Barre team who:

\xc2\xb7 can demonstrate empathy, concern, and respects for all customers

\xc2\xb7 is a critical thinker who can apply program rules to complex and dynamic situations

\xc2\xb7 thrives in a busy work environment and assisting customers over the phone

\xc2\xb7 has experience working with individuals who may be distraught and emotional

\xc2\xb7 enjoys working on a team

\xc2\xb7 is open to learning new technology

What we offer

\xc2\xb7 Flexible work schedules and opportunity to telework part time after completion of training period depending on performance and needs of the office

\xc2\xb7 12 paid holidays, plus sick and vacation time

\xc2\xb7 Excellent, health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.

\xc2\xb7 Retirement plans, including a pension

\xc2\xb7 Parental leave for all new parents, including adoptions

\xc2\xb7 Working with a staff who is dedicated to supporting children and families, including your own

Who May Apply

This position, Benefits Programs Specialist (Job Requisition #47612), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact .
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Duties are primarily performed in an office setting, but private means of transportation should be available for necessary travel to training and/or meetings. Workload is typically heavy with a constant need for prompt, accurate decisions. Incumbents must be organized and able to function independently while balancing competing priorities. Clientele can present with a variety of challenges resulting in a need to calmly and professionally manage situations in which applicants may be in a heightened emotional state, angry, frustrated, unable to communicate, and/or discouraged.

Minimum Qualifications

High School diploma or equivalent AND four (4) years or more of experience in direct client services in a human services, education or employment and training setting.

OR

Associate\'s degree or higher AND two (2) years or more of experience in direct client services in a human services, education or employment and training setting.

OR

Bachelor\'s degree in Business Administration, Human Services, or Education

OR

One (1) year or more of experience as a Benefits Programs Specialist Trainee.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it\'s more than a paycheck. The State\'s total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium
• Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
• Low cost group life insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State\'s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.

State of Vermont