The AIM Center Inc. SOAR Benefits Specialist Chattanooga, TN · Full time

Apply for SOAR Benefits Specialist

AIM CENTER, INC.

Job Description

JOB TITLE:                           SOAR Benefits Specialist                           

REPORTS TO:                    Housing Director            

SUPERVISES:                      N/A      

JOB CLASSIFICATION:     Full-Time – Non-Exempt

Salary: 42,000.00

PURPOSE OF POSITION: To assist individuals who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness who have a serious mental illness, medical impairment, and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder apply for Social Security disability benefits.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The primary responsibility of this position is to assist members/clients in the application process for SSI/SSDI using the SOAR process. The SOAR Specialist is responsible for assessing eligibility for SOAR services, collecting and summarizing disability documentation, and submitting final applications on behalf of members/clients. The SOAR Specialist is a source of support and will implement best practices which dramatically expedite the SSI/SSDI application process and reduce the disability determination period. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers two programs that provide income benefits to those who suffer from disabling conditions that impede their functioning and impact their ability to work.

·        Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs-based program for adults or children who are blind, disabled, or elderly, with low income/resources

·        Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Program for blind or disabled adults who are insured through employee and employer contributions to the Social Security Trust Fund

In most states, Medicaid and/or Medicare health insurance accompany these benefits.

Duties Include but not limited to:

·        Establishes trust, builds rapport, and is empathetic and compassionate to members/clients.

·        Obtain signed Authorization for Release of Information forms.

·        Screen clients for potential eligibility for disability benefits.

·        Create a “My Social Security Account” for applicants

·        Complete interviews with individuals to gather information to complete SSI/SSDI applications

·        Write SOAR Medical Summary Reports for individual applications.

·        Accompany individuals to appointments at the Social Security Administration.

·        Coordinate visits to medical doctors, psychiatrists, and other specialists to obtain evidence for the application.

·        Meets all HIPAA standards including but not limited to exchanging information, keeping Protected Health Information (PHI) secure, and following procedures to protect electronic transmission/access to PHI in the Clubhouse and in the community.

·        Form collaborative relationships with SSA, DDS, community providers, and other outside agencies as appropriate and necessary for specialized services promoting clients’ success.

·        Track the status of the application and assist with appeals if denied.

·        Research, prepare reports and negotiate with the office of Social Security and/or judicial

staff to resolve cases as needed.

·        Submit court documents if required and attend court hearings if necessary to advocate

for client throughout the SOAR application process.

·        Complies with documentation timeline and maintains timely and accurate documentation entries in required data systems to reflect professional activity and client progress.

·        Document and maintain up-to-date information in the AWARDS Information System and in client files regarding services provided.

·        Participate in staff meetings and attends trainings as assigned.

·        Adhere to Organization policies and procedures, professional/ethical standards and legal requirements regarding the SOAR process.

·        Generates specific activity reports in a timely manner and participates in the collection

of outcome data as directed by supervisory staff.

·        Assists members/clients in arranging transportation (to clinical, medical, and any other appointments deemed necessary.

·        Maintains clear and healthy interpersonal boundaries, comply with laws and regulations, and adhere to all professional ethical standards, and confidentiality.

·        Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications

·        High School Diploma with minimum of three years of demonstrated mental health experience.

·        SOAR certification required or the ability to obtain.

·        Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

·        Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet frequent deadlines.

·        Superior organizational skills and attention to detail.

·        Ability to operate computer and related equipment, and proficient in MS Office suite.

·        Good writing skills and the ability to analyze extensive data and create written reports with accuracy and brevity.

·        Ability to maintain professional boundaries and engagement skills with a challenging population and in non-traditional work conditions.

·        Must have a valid Driver’s License with an F endorsement or the ability to obtain within 10 days of hire and a safe driving record. No DUI(s).

·        Must have access to dependable transportation.

·        Maintain personal vehicle insurance meeting the minimum liability requirement throughout employment.

·        The ability to effectively resolve and cope with immediate conflict and crisis situations.

Preferred Qualifications:

·        Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years of demonstrated mental health experience; and experience working in the field of homelessness, with individuals who have mental illness.

·        Experienced Bilingual Soar Certified familiar with Social Security Administration’s Listings of Impairments.

·        Certified Peer Specialist.

·        Experience with providing outreach and successful engagement to a diverse population, includes working with clients, developing trust, and conducting interviews in non-traditional settings and unstructured environments.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·        The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

·        Must be able to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including the use of a computer.

·        Sitting for extended periods of time.

·        Physically able to participate in training sessions, presentations, and meetings.

·        Must be able to adjust to the environment of the target population including making visits to encampments, shelters, and personal living environments when needed.

·        Travel for the purpose of meeting with clients, training, collaborating with stakeholders, or off-site personnel/management.

Full-Time Benefits:

AIM Center provides work-life balance and competitive compensation. Eligible employees receive a rich collection of benefits.

Medical and Prescription Drug Coverage

Company paid Dental

Vision (optional)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/ Behavioral Health

Company paid Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Coverage

Company paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability Coverage

401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match up to 3% of annual salary

Sick and Annual Leave

10 Paid Holidays

AIM Web Site: http://www.aimcenterinc.org

AIM Center Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.