HS Client Benefit Specialist

Be part of strengthening partnerships and join Ventura County as a HS Client Benefit Specialist!

WHAT WE OFFER

The County of Ventura offers an attractive compensation and benefits package that includes:

• Merit Increases – New employees are eligible for an initial 5% merit increase within the pay range upon completion of at least 1,040 hours (approximately 6 months) assuming work meets satisfactory standards.  Subsequent merit increases within the pay range will be upon completion of each additional 2,080 hours (approximately one year) from the initial merit increase. 
• Educational Incentive - An educational incentive of 2.5% for completion of an associate's degree, 3.5% for completion of a bachelor's degree, OR 5% for completion of a graduate degree.  
• Bilingual Incentive – Based on agency need, proficiency levels by exam are $.69 per hour (Level I), $1.00 per hour (Level II), or $1.32 per hour (Level III). 
• Flexible Workweek/Telework Schedule – We support work life balance by offering compressed work (e.g., 9/80 workweek) and remote hybrid telework schedules for most positions subject to organizational needs, satisfactory performance, and completion of a probationary period.  
• Vacation Accrual – New regular, full-time employees shall accrue approximately 14 days of vacation a year for the first 10,400 hours or 5 years of service; vacation accruals increase at 5, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 20 years of service topping out at 26 days a year and 400 hours of vacation hours banked. 
• Annual Leave Redemption – After 14,560 hours of continuous County service an employee may elect to "cash in" or redeem up to 80 hours of vacation accrued in the same year after using 80 hours of vacation in the preceding 12 months. 
• Sick Leave - Full time regular employees accrue 3.08 hours of sick leave per bi-weekly pay period with an advance at hire of 40.04 hours which will be balanced at the completion of 13 bi-weekly pay periods. 
• Deferred Compensation - Eligible to participate in the County's 401(k) Shared Savings Plan and/or the Section 457 Plan. This position is eligible for up to a 3.00% match on your 401(k) contributions. 
• Health Plans–Full time employees are given a flexible credit allowance of up to $25,558 annually to offset the purchase of medical, dental, and/or vision insurance for you and your dependents.
  • Employee only - $509 per biweekly pay period
  • Employee plus one dependent - $779 per biweekly pay period 
  • Employee plus family - $983 per biweekly pay period  
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Pre-tax benefit towards eligible medical, dental and vision care and/or dependent care expenses.
• Pension Plan - Participation in the County's defined pension plan, which has reciprocity with CalPERS.
• Holidays - 12 paid days per year which, includes a scheduled floating holiday.
• Additional Benefits - Tuition Reimbursement, Disability Plans, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance, Wellness Program.

OUR COUNTY AND COMMUNITY Ventura County is located on California's "Gold Coast," approximately 35 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 20 miles southeast of Santa Barbara. The County includes 42 miles of coastline which is home to the fol­lowing cities and points of interest: Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Ventura as well as national protected areas such as parts of the Angeles National Forest, Channel Islands National Park, and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Ventura County’s beauty and weather combined with a wonderful quality of life are among the many reasons our residents choose to call Ventura County "home."

The County of Ventura employs nearly 10,000 staff members who serve Ventura County residents, all of whom have unique experiences and perspectives.  Each of us has a responsibility to support diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace and in our communities.  Our County is proud to have a diverse workforce and providing a respectful and inclusive workplace is a priority and aligns with the County’s values. 

THE AGENCY

To learn about the Human Services Agency (HSA), click “Who We Are” to view a short video about our multiple departments.  

HSA is comprised of nearly 1400 staff members who serve approximately a third of Ventura County residents, all of whom have unique experiences and perspectives.  We value diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and assist communities by bringing these values into the workforce.   

THE POSITION  

Under general supervision, Human Services (HS) Client Benefit Specialist series performs operational functions related to the determination of eligibility for multiple public assistance and human services programs in accordance with local, state, and federal requirements. This recruitment will be used to fill multiple vacancies within the Humans Services Agency. 

For an Inside Look at being a HS Client Benefit Specialist, click HERE to view a short video. 

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate will have public service experience which includes interviewing customers/clients to obtain financial, employment, and personal demographic information, and processing applications to establish eligibility for services and benefits. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent computer skills and the ability to navigate with ease through complex computer systems. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a fast-paced environment, will successfully manage a large volume of work with competing priorities and deadlines. Additionally, the ideal candidate will excel in collaborating with co-workers at various levels in different departments, will be able to work well independently, and will have excellent organization, attention to detail, and time management skills.

Ideal candidates will possess the following competencies: 

• Adaptability & Flexibility – Responding positively to change and fluidly modifying behavior as the situation requires
• Attention to Detail – Accomplishing tasks thoroughly with concern for all elements involved, however small
• Business/Technical Expertise – Skillfully applying specialized job-related knowledge
• Communication – Respectfully delivering pertinent, truthful, and timely information and comprehending information delivered by others
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving – Analyzing and evaluating information, problems, and options with logic and good judgment 
• Customer Service – Ensuring consistent, responsive, and superior delivery of services to internal and external stakeholders
• Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging – Embracing the County’s commitment to valuing individuals with varied backgrounds, promoting equal access and opportunity for all, and empowering others in their unique strengths
• Information Gathering – Proactively obtaining facts and data needed to effectively answer question, solve problems, or complete projects
• Mathematical Reasoning – Performing computations and solving numerical or statistical problems
• Professional Integrity & Ethics – Demonstrating high standards of conduct and consistently adhering to sound moral principles
• Reading Comprehension – understanding, analyzing, and applying written information
• Relationship Building – Developing and maintaining stable, mutually beneficial networks of cooperation among clients, coworkers, vendors, and other organizations
• Results Focus – Initiating tasks, meeting organizational goals, and committing to proficient accomplishment
• Self-Management – Exemplifying personal organization, dependability, and self-discipline
• Technology Utilization – Effectively and efficiently using electronic hardware, software applications, and other advanced tools to accomplish tasks and goals

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Each successive level in the HS Client Benefit Specialist series is distinguished by scope of independence and responsibility.  The level of position within the series is commensurate with the complexity of the tasks assigned within the discipline.  Incumbents may perform work determining eligibility in multiple programs within the department and may also be reassigned to serve in other units or offices as needed by the department. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist Trainee is a classroom and on-the-job training level in which the emphasis is on learning the basic regulatory and statutory requirements. Incumbents are hired at the Trainee level and work under direct supervision while learning the necessary policies and processes for success as a Client Benefit Specialist (CBS) employee.  The CBS Trainee experience includes classroom and on-the-job training.  As a CBS Trainee, employees are given smaller caseloads and 100% of their work is reviewed.  As employees progress through training, the caseload increases, and the percentage of work reviewed decreases based on individual performance.  Upon successful completion of the training program, employees will transition to working in an assigned office. Incumbents are expected to progress toward competency as a HS Client Benefit Specialist I upon completion of the initial training period. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist I is the first level in the classification series in which the emphasis is on learning casework methods, eligibility procedures, regulations, and policies.  Incumbents carry a caseload under close supervision, and are expected to progress toward competency as a HS Client Benefit Specialist II. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist II is the journey-level classification in which incumbents demonstrate working knowledge of eligibility regulations and procedures, are able to work with general rather than direct supervision, and handle more complex cases in consultation with the HS Client Benefit Specialist IV and/or Supervisor. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist III is the advanced journey-level in the classification series.  Incumbents assist with complex services under the lead of the HS Client Benefit Specialist IV, demonstrate working knowledge of eligibility requirements and comprehensive knowledge of the programs associated with their primary assignment, and serve as a resource for members of their unit.

APPROXIMATE SALARIES
HS Client Benefit Specialist Trainee: $22.15 per hour
HS Client Benefit Specialist I: $25.27 - $26.60 per hour
HS Client Benefit Specialist II: $27.93 - $29.26 per hour
HS Client Benefit Specialist III: $29.25 - $32.12 per hour
 
HS Client Benefit Specialist Trainee/I/II/III are represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and are eligible for overtime compensation.

Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Interview applicants and/or recipients of public assistance programs such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, General Relief, CalWORKs, and Foster Care to obtain household composition, financial, employment, and personal demographic information to determine initial or continued eligibility.  
• Explain services, benefits, program requirements and governmental procedures individually and/or in group settings; may provide assistance in the agency resource centers.  
• Assess financial, personal and social information to determine applicant need, validate the system-determined benefit, and authorize issuance of benefits in a timely manner in accordance with regulatory and system deadlines, and local, state and federal compliance regulations, as well as internal performance standards.  
• Contact individuals, public and private agencies, businesses, and other resources to verify information by telephone, mail, or home visits.
• Process applications, forms and reports, enter case information and record contacts into automated systems, and maintain paper and electronic case files.  
• Review electronic and hard copy case records to determine basis of eligibility, benefit computation, compliance with program policies and procedures.  
• Prepare a variety of written correspondence related to client eligibility, activity, and services provided.
• Provide client information to Agency case management staff in various departments, where appropriate, in an integrated, collaborative effort.
• Determine need for additional services and provide appropriate referrals and follow-up.
• As authorized, represent the Agency on related committees and taskforce groups.
• Assist in the training and development of new Client Benefit Specialist employees (CBS II/III).
• Assist with the more difficult eligibility problems and/or perform special assignments (CBS II/III).
• Prepare and/or assist in the development of correspondence and reports (CBS II/III).
• Assist in conducting regular case reviews to assure compliance with regulations and procedures (CBS III).
• Mentor new employees, provide consultation to less experienced employees, and serve as a resource person for co-workers (CBS III).
• Provide occasional back-up for co-workers (CBS III).
• Assist in development and presentation of training for less experienced personnel (CBS III).
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

These are entrance requirements to the exam process and assure neither continuance in the process nor placement on an eligible list. 

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE 

HS Client Benefit Specialist Trainee: At least two years of responsible experience that includes substantial work involving public contact, interviewing, math computations, completion of complex forms or eliciting information from the public (some examples of comparable experience may include experience within a call center, personnel office, employment office, unemployment office, disability insurance office, worker's compensation office, social security office, physician's office, insurance firm, social service agency, clerical, or similar);OR Completion of college coursework may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis (30 semester or 45 quarter units per year of experience). 

HS Client Benefit Specialist I: Successful completion of at least three (3) to five and a half (5.5) months as a HS Client Benefit Specialist (CBS) Trainee; OR at least six (6) months of experience determining eligibility for public assistance in a public human services agency or comparable case management experience. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist II: One (1) year of experience determining eligibility for public assistance in a public human services agency in the State of California, at the CBS I level. 

HS Client Benefit Specialist III: Two (2) years of experience determining eligibility for public assistance in a public human services agency in the State of California, at the CBS I/II level.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Beginner proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and email platforms, such as Outlook
• Excellent written communication skills must be demonstrated in the completion of the employment application and supplemental questionnaire.
• Some positions may require possession of, or the ability to obtain and maintain a valid California driver license prior to appointment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed in an office environment but may require visits to other organizations, agencies and departments, private businesses, client homes or work locations; and will require direct meetings with the public, co-located and external program partners and other community groups. Work locations, work schedules, and work units will vary, and may change as needed according to business needs and at the discretion of management. Worksite reassignments may occur due to changes in facilities or other operational requirements within the business. 

COUNTY EMPLOYEES AS DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

When a disaster strikes of natural or man-made origin, Ventura County employees may be called upon to provide service to the community by assisting in emergency response efforts. This may require employees to work in other locations, different hours, and out of class.  At the time of hire, all County employees will be required to sign an Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance for Disaster Service Workers and Public Employees (Sections 3102 and 3103, Government Code of California).

DESIRED 

• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Demonstrated skills in time management and organization.
• Experience in a fast-paced, high volume work environment. 

FINAL FILING DATE:  This is a continuous recruitment and may close at any time; therefore, apply as soon as possible if you are interested in it.  Your application must be received by County of Ventura Human Resources in Ventura, California, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.   To apply online, please refer to our web site at www.ventura.org/jobs.  If you prefer to fill out a paper application form, please call (805) 654-5129 for application materials and submit them to County of Ventura Human Resources, 800 South Victoria Avenue, L-1970, Ventura, CA  93009. 

FIRST REVIEW: A first review of applications is anticipated to occur on or around January 17, 2025 and subsequent reviews may be conducted until sufficient applications are received to meet business needs.   

Information for Transfer Candidates: If presently permanently employed in another "merit" or "civil service" public agency/entity in the same or substantively similar position as is advertised, and if appointed to that position by successful performance in a "merit" or "civil service" style examination, then appointment by "Lateral Transfer" may be possible. If interested, please click here for additional information.

Note: It is essential that you complete all sections of your application and supplemental questionnaire thoroughly and accurately to demonstrate your qualifications. A resume and/or other related documents may be attached to supplement the information in your application and supplemental questionnaire; however, it/they may not be submitted in lieu of the application.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE - qualifying:  All applicants are required to complete and submit the questionnaire for this exam AT THE TIME OF FILING.  The supplemental questionnaire may be used throughout the recruitment and hiring process to assist in determining qualifications for the position.  Failure to complete and submit the questionnaire may result in removal of the application from further consideration. 

APPLICATION EVALUATION - qualifying: All applications will be reviewed to determine whether the stated requirements are met.  Applicants meeting the stated requirements will be invited to continue to the next step in the examination process. 

WRITTEN EXAMINATION - 100%: An un-proctored, internet-based job-related written exam will be conducted to evaluate participating candidates' knowledge of Reading Comprehension, Language Skills, Interpersonal Skills, and Math Skills for successful performance on the job.  Candidates must earn a score of seventy percent (70%) or higher to qualify for placement on the eligible list.  

VETERAN'S POINTS: This is a trainee/entry level classification, and Veteran's Points may apply to eligible applicants. Documentation of military service must be submitted prior to close of recruitment in order to receive points.  

ELIGIBLE LIST: Applicants successfully completing the exam process may be placed on an eligible list for a period of six (6) months. The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill present and future Regular, Temporary, Fixed-Term, Intermittent, and Extra-help vacancies within the Human Services Agency.

NOTE: If appointed at the lower level, incumbent may be promoted to the higher level without further examination upon meeting the minimum requirements, demonstrating satisfactory performance, and in accordance with the business needs of the department. Formal assignment to the higher level is at the discretion and approval of management.

SELECTION INTERVIEW: When a position becomes available, applicants are referred to the employing department for interviews beginning with the highest scoring applicants, moving down the list from the top until the available positions are filled.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:  A thorough pre-employment, post offer background investigation which may include inquiry into past employment, education, criminal background information, and driving record is required for this position. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: The County of Ventura is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation. It is an objective of the County of Ventura to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for county employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

RECRUITER CONTACT INFORMATION: For further information about this recruitment, please contact Kim Mariscal by email at kim.mariscal@ventura.org or by telephone at (805) 477-5153.

Salary : $46,070 - $66,801