Job Description

Employment Resources, Inc. (ERI) is a Madison-based nonprofit agency that advances the employment, health and financial security of people with disabilities. ERI seeks a Benefits Specialist to provide benefits counseling and information and support to people with disabilities. This role assists people with navigating various benefits programs such as Social Security, FoodShare, Medicare and Medicaid, while also navigating employment and budgeting. The person in this position will be working with adults, youth, and their families. 

 This position may work under various funding sources. This position can be located in our Madison or Wauwatosa office. We can also accommodate work from home within Wisconsin with occasional travel to our Madison office.

 ERI welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences to apply for this opportunity. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce fosters creativity, innovation, and a stronger sense of community. Join us in our commitment to creating a workplace that values and respects the unique perspectives and contributions of every team member.

  Essential Functions

• Counsel beneficiaries on work incentives, benefit programs, and options available in a manner that empowers them to make informed choices about their employment goals.
• Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA), Veteran’s Administration, State Medicaid Agency, Housing Office, and other partners on behalf of consumers for clarification regarding eligibility for benefits. If problems arise with a consumer’s benefits, provide information and resources regarding appealing a negative action on their benefit status.
• Prepare comprehensive and accurate written information for individual consumers based on information gathered through communication with the beneficiary, SSA Representatives, and any other relevant sources.
• Meet with beneficiaries and other team members to explain the effects of employment on benefits and entitlements.
• Provide proactive follow-up support and assistance as needed.
• Encourage and support accurate and timely earned income reporting to reduce overpayment issues.
• Connect beneficiaries to other supports and services they need to improve their quality of life and to make a successful transition to employment.
• Document beneficiary contacts and efforts in a database system.

  Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Bachelor’s or associate degree in human services, education, accounting, paralegal or allied health field or equivalent training and experience is required.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, high attention to detail, an aptitude for math, and the ability to learn highly specific policy information.
• Must work well independently and as part of a team with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines while remaining flexible.
• The ability to relate, communicate and engage with diverse populations is important.
• Must be capable of using a computer and business software, as well as have ability to research complex topics.
• ERI will provide the technical benefit training necessary for this work.
• Must possess a valid Wisconsin driver’s license, proof of personal auto liability insurance meeting Wisconsin minimum requirements, and a reliable vehicle.
• Must be willing to undergo criminal, caregiver and sex offender background checks, as well as a federal suitability determination in order to meet programmatic requirements.

  About ERI

ERI provides a variety of services throughout Wisconsin and beyond. Since 1990, our mission is to practice and promote innovative services to advance employment opportunities, support personal choices, and enhance the well-being of people with disabilities. To learn more about ERI, visit our website: eri-wi.org.

  To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume.  The search is open until the position is filled. 

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