Disability Benefits Specialist

Disability Benefits Specialist

Full Time

Sedalia, MO

Pettis/Benton County

(Hybrid/Remote)

The Center for Human Services (CHS) has provided exceptional opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1955. Currently, CHS provides programs and services to assist individuals with disabilities, low-income, at-risk children, and their families to meet their goals and experience their best lives while living, working, playing, and becoming a part of their communities. As an organization, we are leaders in excellence, we have a steadfast commitment to solutions, we respect all differences, abilities, and similarities in our employees and clients, and we advocate autonomy!

POSITION SUMMARY

The Disability Benefits Specialist supports the Center for Human Services (CHS) mission by providing accurate, person-centered benefits planning services to individuals with disabilities pursuing competitive, integrated employment. This position serves as a key resource for navigating public benefits, work incentives, and the relationship between employment and long-term supports. The Specialist analyzes benefits, assists with work incentives and benefit applications, supports staff and external partners, and ensures individuals have the knowledge and tools to make informed employment decisions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Disability Benefits Specialist, you will:

• Conduct individualized benefits planning by meeting with individuals referred to Employment Services to gather benefit information, clarify employment goals, and complete a comprehensive intake. Analyze the impact of employment on benefits including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, Medicare, HUD, SNAP, and VA benefits. Create individualized Benefits Summaries and Benefits Management Plans.
• Provide expert consultation and support by supporting informed decision-making through explanation of available work incentives and eligibility programs such as 1619(b), Ticket to Work Health Assurance, and Medicaid Spend Down. Assist individuals in submitting necessary documentation, understanding reporting requirements, and implementing strategies to maintain essential benefits while working.
• Assist with benefit applications and appeals by supporting individuals in completing initial and renewal applications for benefits such as SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and housing assistance, and providing guidance during appeals, re-determinations, or grievance processes as needed.
• Provide outreach and education by delivering trainings or informational sessions to individuals, families, support teams, or staff regarding public benefits, work incentives, reporting responsibilities, and navigating system changes.
• Ensure accurate documentation and compliance by maintaining timely and accurate entries in SetWorks and other systems in alignment with CHS, DMH, VR, and SSA expectations. Submit completed Benefit Summaries and Plans to the Director for review and follow department guidelines for documentation and file management.
• Support team collaboration by serving as the department’s primary contact for benefits-related inquiries by guardians, support staff, and funders, and by providing technical assistance to staff. Participate in meetings and staffing as requested to provide benefits insight and promote coordinated, person-centered planning.
• Engage in ongoing learning and development by staying up to date on federal, state, and local policy changes related to benefits and employment. Complete required trainings, maintain certifications, and participate in department or external learning opportunities as assigned.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to interpret and explain complex policies
• Ability to navigate SSA, Medicaid, and state benefit systems
• Accurate and timely electronic documentation
• Effective time management and task prioritization
• Experience with benefits-related applications, renewals, and forms
• Proficient in SetWorks, Microsoft Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive
• Strong attention to detail and record-keeping accuracy
• Strong written and verbal communication

COMPETENCIES

• Adaptability and responsiveness to change
• Commitment to person-centered practices
• Communication and interpersonal collaboration
• Continuous learning and professional growth
• Ethical decision-making and confidentiality
• Initiative and independent problem-solving
• Professionalism and accountability
• Respect for cultural and individual diversity

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required (Human Services, Social Work, Counseling, or related field) Excel skills include the ability to combine and manipulate sets of data.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in benefits counseling, case management, advocacy, or system navigation
• Familiarity with SSA, Medicaid, and housing subsidy programs preferred
• Experience with DMH, VR, or employment services strongly preferred

Must possess or obtain upon hire: 

• CPR and First Aid certification within 30 days of hire
• Completion of a certified benefits planning course or curriculum within the first year of employment
• CESP certification required after one year in the position
• Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance
• Reliable transportation and communication access

SHIFTS: FT (40 hrs.) Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm

BENEFITS: CHS offers best-in-industry benefits. Click here to view our Benefits guide for more details

EEO STATEMENT

Center for Human Services/Chariton Valley Association provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This statement applies throughout the life cycle of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at 660-826-4400 or 660-665-1111 ask for HR.