Benefits Specialist - Administrator II

Title: Benefits Specialist - Administrator II

MHTLH

Location: Denver United States

Job Description:

This position is open to current Colorado residents only.

About Mental Health Transitional Living Homes (MHTLH)

The CDHS Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health's Transitional Living Homes Program was created to increase bed capacity for persons in need of residential behavioral health treatment. House Bill (HB) 22-1303 has authorized new beds to be used for persons needing residential services at a less restrictive level of care and to reduce and eliminate the backlog of such persons in more restrictive settings. HB 22-1303 directs the Department of Human Services (Department) and the Department of Health Care and Policy Financing to create, develop, or contract to add at least 125 additional beds at mental health residential treatment facilities (treatment facilities) throughout the state for adults in need of ongoing supportive services. The bill also requires that the department renovate a building at the mental health hospital at Fort Logan to create at least 16 additional civil beds for such persons.

These beds serve as a step-down option from inpatient care and as a step up when deemed medically necessary and lower level of care settings can no longer adequately and safely provide effective care.

This position is deemed 100% Remote Work.

This position will comply with the OCFMH/Mental Health Transitional Living Homes current 

working arrangements.  

Please note: Work arrangements are subject to change at any time. 

This position is the centralized benefits specialist for the MHTL Homes and is responsible for all applicable financial and medical benefits (e.g. Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security Insurance (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), etc.). This position is responsible for providing assistance in applying for, securing, and maintaining benefits for MHTL Homes clients who are in need of such resources. The Admissions and Coordination team identifies clients who may require such assistance prior to admission. Post admission, the Intensive Case Managers within the MHTL Homes identify any additional clients who may require such support. This position is responsible for checking eligibility verification, which is a resource that is utilized to determine if clients' benefits remain active. This position also proactively works towards forecasting when benefits require redetermination. When and if a client's benefits deactivate, this position is responsible for communicating the inactivation of benefits to the appropriate MHTL Homes team and providing any support necessary to assist in attaining benefits should the client be eligible. This position also collaborates with various external entities regarding benefits determination and activity. Such entities include, but are not limited to, Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS), Colorado Access, Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF). Collaboration with these entities is necessary to support the process of determination for clients who have special needs as it pertains to benefits, including trusts that may require approval.

This position requires specialized knowledge regarding the benefits application process and system in order to independently secure benefits in a timely manner, which includes acquisition forms, submissions processes, and subsequent collaboration with internal and external entities. This position will engage in problem-solving and critical thinking to ensure submissions are completed. This position will also require strong communication skills when it comes to providing updates regarding the status of applications to the MHTL Homes team on a regular basis. 

It is expected that this position will develop working relationships across the MHTL Homes teams and with various stakeholders, including benefits agencies and other community partners. This position is responsible for providing support in identifying and resolving potential barriers to attaining benefits. This position will require identification and development of process and procedures, apply critical thinking and analytical skills, and communicate effectively with others. This will include determining how to create and coordinate tracking processes to ensure timely approval of client benefits. Other duties include:

Benefits Determination and Planning:

• Reviews client status and benefits needs and assists in identifying potential benefits needs, options, and eligibility. 
• Collaborates with the MHTL Homes team, the client, and external stakeholders to successfully complete all necessary benefits related documentation. 
• Ensures benefits applications and subsequent documentation is submitted in a timely fashion. This position tracks the progress of all benefits applications submissions and provides frequent status updates regarding benefits applications to the MHTL Homes team. 
• Requires flexibility and familiarity with completion of online forms, supplemental documentation needs, frequent and sometimes unexpected requests of various agencies related to benefits documentation, and proficiency in using technology for the aforementioned processes. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to approach conflict resolution in stride will lend to the success of this position.

Benefits Submission and Tracking:

• Follows up on all benefits applications and submitted documentation in a timely fashion, reviews documents for potential errors prior to submission, and tracks benefits applications from start to finish. 
• Creates and utilizes a tracking system to ensure accurate and timely information is stored and shared in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). 
• Identifies, tracks, and compiles any additional requests received related to benefits applications and acquisitions (e.g., submitting additional documents, scheduling phone assessments, regularly scheduled follow-up calls with various agencies, etc.). 
• Identifies and communicates potential barriers in the benefits application process, identifies changes in the system and makes modifications to processes accordingly, and develops plans to address any barriers associated with the benefits application process.

Develop Protocols and Processes:

• Responsible for establishing relationships with community benefits agencies (e.g. Medicaid, SSA, etc.) and develops assigned contacts to utilize for the facilitation of client benefits requests. 
• Analyzes clients' needs in terms of benefits and develops procedures and protocols which are aimed at supporting the process for assisting in the attainment of benefits for MHTL Homes clients.

Other duties as assigned:

• Provide specific examples of regular, ongoing decisions made by this position related to this duty.

Other duties as assigned.

Experience Only:

• Five (5) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position

OR

Education and Experience:

• A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in Psychology, Social Work, Social Sciences, or Sociology or related to the work assigned, equal to five (5) years

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Social Sciences, or Sociology
• Expertise in Public Benefits Programs: In-depth knowledge of eligibility requirements, application processes, and benefits for Medicaid, Medicare, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
• Knowledge of Regulatory Frameworks: A working understanding of the rules and regulations set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This includes understanding how work, income, and assets can affect a person's eligibility and benefit amount.
• Client Interviewing & Case Management: The ability to conduct sensitive and thorough interviews with clients to gather necessary information, explain complex program details clearly, and manage case files with meticulous attention.
• Problem-Solving & Advocacy: The capacity to identify and resolve issues related to benefit applications, claims, and denials. The specialist must be able to advocate on behalf of clients, including navigating appeals processes.
• Interpersonal & Empathy Skills: A high level of empathy and patience is crucial for working with vulnerable populations. The specialist must be able to build trust and provide compassionate support while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Data Entry & Reporting: Proficiency in data entry and record-keeping systems is necessary to maintain accurate client information and generate reports for grant funding, internal tracking, or compliance.
• Previous State experience

Conditions of employment:

• Full background check required: 

CBI & FBI fingerprint check, Colorado Court Database check, Medicare Fraud Database, TRAILS Database check. This position will also provide direct care to vulnerable adults requiring a CAPS check (as defined by C.R.S. 26-3.1-101, position provides services & support care to at-risk/vulnerable adults including case management, clergy, physical or mental health services, safety or welfare services).

• Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:

• Disclose that information on the application.

• Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.

• Provide your employee number from your prior State employment.  Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.

CDHS Selection Process Explanation

Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements. 

• Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
• Relevant years of state service experience.

Minimum Qualification Screening Process 

A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position.  You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover 

letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."

You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process.  Part-time work experience will be prorated.Comparative Analysis Process - Structured Application Review. 

After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from a Skills Test. 

Your Work Experience/Job Duties

Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications. 

If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.     

Supplemental Questions 

Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers  based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).

Appeal Rights

You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated.  You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.

• You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.  

• You can find the official appeal form here. 

• You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:

• By email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), or

• Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or 

• Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or

• Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action.

Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:

• At (303) 866-3300, or

•  Refer to the  Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.

• How to apply to the State of Colorado (YouTube Video, Runtime 3:59, Closed Captions Available)

• The Assessment Process

• For additional recruiting questions, please contact: Jeru Marshall - jerusalen.marshall@state.co.us

About Us & Benefits

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:

• Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans

• Medical and dental health plans

• Employer supplemented Health Savings Account

• Paid life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

• 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave

• State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center

• Employee Wellness program

• Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more

• Remote work arrangements for eligible positions

• *Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Our Values

• We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.

• Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.

• We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.

• Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.

• We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.

• Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.

ADA Accommodations

CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment. 

This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us.

EEO Statement

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer

We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities.  The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.

Additional Support For Your Application

Toll Free Applicant Technical Support

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time).  Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application, 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files, and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.