Fair Hearing Specialist - Limited Service Job Listing at State of Vermont in Waterbury, VT (Job ID 51B8A778-6175-4)

Description

Overview

Who We Are
The Economic Services Division (ESD) administers public assistance programs that help Vermonters meet their basic needs. ESD is one of six divisions within the Department for Children and Families (DCF), one of the largest departments within Vermont's Agency of Human Services.
ESD leadership recognizes that its greatest asset is its employees and is committed to continually identifying opportunities to strengthen, support, and invest in its workforce.

The Fair Hearing Specialist (FHS) is responsible for managing and maintaining ownership of cases escalated by applicant households who disagree with an eligibility determination made by the Economic Services Division (ESD). This position plays an important role in ensuring that cases are thoroughly reviewed, appropriately researched, and resolved in a timely and professional manner.
Responsibilities and assignments may vary based on organizational priorities, program changes, special projects, and evolving staff experience and operational needs.
The Fair Hearing Specialist conducts investigative research on public assistance cases escalated to the FHS from applicant households disputing eligibility determinations. This includes collaborating and communicating with professional partners, such as the Office of the Attorney General, Vermont Legal Aid, the Human Services Board, and other agencies as necessary.
The FHS receives Fair Hearing requests from ESD staff, reviews the circumstances of each case, and determines appropriate next steps. Upon conclusion of a Fair Hearing case, the specialist communicates with petitioners and department attorneys to address outstanding matters and ensure all case-related details are resolved and closed.
The FHS will provide sworn testimony during Fair Hearing proceedings in collaboration with the Assistant Attorney General's Office. Testimony is typically provided by telephone, although in-person participation may occasionally be necessary.
Skills and Experience
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, sound research and analytical abilities, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Experience with public assistance programs and eligibility determination processes is preferred. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, professional, and capable of managing multiple cases while working collaboratively with internal and external partners.
Please note: This position is funded through June 30, 2027.

What We Offer
We are committed to supporting our employees both professionally and personally. Benefits include:
•    Flexible scheduling and alternative work schedules, when available and consistent with applicable policies.
•    12 paid holidays, in addition to sick and vacation leave.
•    Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees and their families.
•    Retirement benefits, including a pension plan.
•    Parental leave for all new parents, including adoptive parents.
•    The opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team committed to supporting Vermont's children and families, while making a meaningful difference in the lives of Vermonters.

Who May Apply

This position, Fair Hearing Specialist - Limited Service (Job Requisition #56113), is open to all State employees and external applicants. It is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs. 
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Mark.Eley@vermont.gov
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 performed in a standard office setting. Some travel may be necessary, for which private transportation must be available. Stressful interaction with upset or emotional clients may occur. Staff workload may frequently be heavy. Work outside of typical business hours may be expected and incumbents might be required to appear in court, representing the State of Vermont.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree AND one (1) or more years at or above a technical level role that includes research, customer service, review of healthcare services or similar field

OR

Associate's degree AND three (3) or more years at or above a technical level role that includes research, customer service, review of healthcare services or similar field.

OR

High School diploma or equivalent AND five (5) or more years at or above a technical level role that includes research, customer service, review of healthcare services or similar field.

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 and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
•     Work/Life balance: 12 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
•     State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
•     Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
•     Tuition Reimbursement
•     Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
•     Low cost group life insurance
•     Incentive-based Wellness Program
•     Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment 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.

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