Client Benefits Specialist

Job Overview/Summary

The Benefits Specialist will provide comprehensive services and conduct activities related to Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) programs, funded by the Kentucky Office for Refugees (KOR), and other public benefits for which clients are eligible, funded by the KY Department for Community Based Services (DCBS). The person in this role will represent the IRC and collaborate and coordinate closely with KOR, DCBS, other implementing agencies, local stakeholders and service providers. 

Major Responsibilities

Refugee, Parolee, Entrants services

• Provide comprehensive and required services to IRC clients enrolling and enrolled in Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and other public benefits.
• Review benefit applications for accuracy and make eligibility determinations, ensuring non-duplication of services.
• Prepare all enrollment documents and conduct enrollment meetings, ensuring clients understand their rights and responsibilities.
• Conduct monthly redetermination meetings, to track and plan participation in employment services for the purpose of determining continued eligibility.
• Prepare the enrollment package on behalf of IRC clients. 
• Prepare and disseminate case closure documentation according to policies.
• Maintain meticulous documentation and ensure that all deliverables are submitted to KOR and DCBS on time and in compliance with the policies and procedures.
• Support benefits enrollment for other programs as directed by the Resettlement Manager. 

Coordination

• Attend all KOR-scheduled meetings to coordinate with key stakeholders, Quarterly Forums, training events and collaboration meetings.
• Actively engage with KOR, DCBS, and other stakeholders to develop policy and processes, identify ways to improve programs and provide feedback. 
• Communicate resettlement trends, including spikes in scheduled arrivals, to KOR, DCBS, and other providers on a regular basis. 
• Remain current on topics and the context in which RCA benefits are processed, accessed and used, including the Code of Federal Regulations that relate to each of the benefits available through the Kentucky CMA Benefits Program.

Key Working Relationship

Position Reports to: Economic Empowerment Manager

Indirect Reporting: Finance Manager 

Other Internal and/or external contacts:

Internal: Health and Benefits Coordinator, Housing team, Caseworkers, and Quality Assurance teams, Employment team; Operations team; Finance team; other IRC Louisville Program Teams

External: Kentucky Office for Refugees, KY Department of Community Based Services

Job Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of experience working in refugee resettlement with demonstrated understanding of Department of State Refugee Reception and Placement program requirements is preferred
• Working knowledge of public assistance programs in KY is preferred
• Lived experience as a refugee or immigrant is welcome, and experience working with refugees and/or immigrants preferred
• Demonstrated experience working with resettlement and refugee organizations is preferred
• A working knowledge of financial management and federal grant compliance knowledge and ability
• English proficiency, both spoken and written, is required
• Ability to document interactions and services provided and maintain updated and accurate documentation
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, comfort learning and working with other technical systems
• Effective time management skills and ability to focus and work productively in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to work as a team member in a multi-cultural environment
• Valid driver’s license: access to reliable transportation and required insurance to travel throughout the service delivery area
• Commitment to anti-racism and continual learning and growth; values a culture of diversity, equality, and inclusion.

Working Environment

• Standard, professional office environment; office, and field work
• May require occasional weekend and /or evening work

Compensation: Posted pay ranges apply to US-based candidates. Ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget.  Exact offers are calibrated by work location, individual candidate experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

US Benefits: The IRC offers a comprehensive and highly competitive set of benefits. All US employees are eligible for sick time, a 403b retirement savings plans: up to 4.5% immediately vested matching contribution, plus an 3-7% additional IRC contribution, and an Employee Assistance Program which is available to our staff and their families to support in times of crisis and mental health struggles.

In addition, full-time employees are eligible for 10 US paid holidays, 20-25 paid time off days, disability & life insurance, medical, dental, and vision insurance (employee contribution starting at $135, $7, and $5 per month respectively) and FSA for healthcare, childcare, and commuter costs. Part-time employees are eligible for a proportionate amount of paid time off. These additional benefits apply to employees who work at least 6 months within a 12 month time period. 

Salary : $5 - $7