Employment and Social Security Benefits Specialistployment and Social Security Benefits Specialist

BASIC FUNCTIONResponsible for the delivery of Social Security Benefits Planning throughout Goodwill Keystone Area’s 22 county territory. Develop and implement individualized plans to assists individuals with barriers to independence prepare for, obtain and retain employment in the community.JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESA. Deliver Social Security Benefits Planning designed to inform, and answer questions from a participant about competitive integrated employment and how and whether it will result in increased economic self-sufficiency and/or net financial benefit through the use of various work incentives. Through an accurate individualized assessment, this service provides information to the participant regarding the full array of available work incentives for essential benefit programs including Supplemental Security Income, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, housing subsidies, food stamps, etc. The following services will be delivered as prescribed by the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Providers Agreement:• Work Incentives Benefits Analysis – Delivered Face to Face and Virtually.• Work Incentives Benefits Analysis Update- Delivered Face to Face and Virtually.• Plan to Achieve Self Support - Delivered Face to Face and Virtually.

B. Interacts with community agencies and professional organizations by hosting information sessions, staff trainings, or educational workshops to educate and inform individuals about benefits counseling. Markets services to funding sources and referrals. Attends Provider meetings, Employment meetings and other funding source meetings as appropriate.C. Interacts with community agencies and professional organizations by hosting information sessions, staff trainings, or educational workshops to educate and inform individuals about benefits counseling. Markets services to funding sources and referrals. Attends Provider meetings, Employment meetings and other funding source meetings as appropriate.D. Develop a consumer individualized plan (IEP) with consumers and their supports team that identifies a competitive employment goal and includes both short and long-term strategies to meet this goal. E. Provide the services in support of the IEP goal including, but not limited to, assist individuals in developing appropriate career goals, complete resumes and job applications, develop job interviewing schools, disclose barriers and request accommodations. F. Utilize evidence-based strategies to support successful employment and job retention including on the job training/coaching techniques, informational interview, paid work experience and assessments. G. Participate in Employment Services Support Team bi-weekly conference calls with other Employment Managers and Director of Employment Services meetings as scheduled.H. Maintains awareness of new and changing laws, regulations, funding directions, expectations, etc. as it relates to services provided.I. Works cooperatively with other Goodwill departments and divisions to support the integrity of services provided and compliance with regulating bodies.J. Promotes an environment of workplace safety. Assures that regulatory safety requirements are adhered to.K. Communicates progress, problems, and concerns to the Director of Employment Services

JOB SPECIFICATIONS• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services; or Associates degree in Human Services with two (2) years’ experience; or a combination of education and experience to enable the individual to meet the standards and expectations of the position. • Must be able to obtain Community Partner Work Incentive Counselor Certification (CPWIC) from Virginia Commonwealth University or WIP-C within first six months of employment. Must complete required CEU’s to maintain certification within timeframes outlined by certifying agency.• Must be able to obtain and maintain ACRE Certification within first 90 days of employment. • Ability to work maturely with a variety of confidential information.• Must have excellent communication, writing, and organizational skills.• Flexibility to work the hours required to meet the needs and goals of the division.• Computer proficiency with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite Products. • Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and satisfactorily complete a motor vehicle check on an annual basis.• Must complete and successfully pass Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse Clearance and FBI Clearance.