The Benefits Specialist helps individuals and families access public benefits and community resources that promote financial stability, food security, healthcare access, and housing stability. This position provides eligibility screening, application assistance, advocacy, follow-up, and recertification support for programs such as CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, LIHEAP, and other local, state, and federal assistance programs.
Working collaboratively with SCS staff and community partners, the Benefits Specialist helps clients navigate complex benefit systems, remove barriers to access, maximize available resources, and maintain ongoing eligibility while ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with program requirements.
Benefits Navigation & Client Support
- Conduct eligibility screenings and educate clients on available public benefits and community resources.
- Assist clients with completing, submitting, and tracking benefit applications.
- Collect and verify required documentation and coordinate with partner agencies to resolve application issues.
- Assist clients with benefit renewals, recertifications, and maintaining ongoing eligibility.
- Educate clients on how employment or household changes may impact benefits.
- Coordinate with SCS program staff to integrate benefits planning into overall service delivery.
- Maintain accurate, confidential client records and ensure compliance with agency and funding requirements.
Outreach & Partnerships
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations, healthcare providers, schools, and government agencies.
- Conduct outreach and presentations to increase awareness of SCS services and available public benefits.
- Stay informed of changes to public benefit programs and community resources.
Program Administration
- Track client outcomes and program performance metrics.
- Prepare reports and maintain accurate documentation.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and continuous quality improvement efforts.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in social work, Human Services, Psychology, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
- One to three years of experience in benefits of enrollment, case management, social services, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of public benefits programs, eligibility requirements, and community resources.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to build trusting relationships with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems (Salesforce preferred).
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, maintain confidentiality, and lift up to 25 pounds.
Working Conditions
This is a full-time position, generally Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evenings or weekends for outreach and community events. Local travel within Santa Clara County may be required.
Salary & Benefits
Salary: $58,000–$66,500 annually depending on qualifications and experience.
Sunnyvale Community Services offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and professional development opportunities.
Pay: $58,000.00 - $66,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
