Job Summary:

The Benefits Counselor plays a vital role with the IPS model, assisting individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) in securing and maintaining competitive employment.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Create a written Work Incentive Benefits Analysis or amends a written Work Incentive Benefits Analysis in the event of changes in income.
• Support the beneficiary in accessing work incentives, (1916b) subsidies, Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE), Plan to Achieve Self Support (PASS)
• Develop IRWEs, Subsidies, Special Conditions, and PASS
• Gather and report accurate information and benefits.
• Support a better understanding of benefits and working and address any concerns regarding the impact of working on benefits
• Support the development of a plan to maximize earning potential, report earnings, and navigate the benefit systems the benefit systems the beneficiary is involved in or seeks to gain involvement.
• Provide reports explaining the results of the work incentive benefits analysts, including any changes to benefits.
• Provide a list of work incentives available, as applicable.
• Support the beneficiary to access the work incentive they want to use.
• Other duties assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Active listening to understand client needs and concerns
• Proficiency in computer programs for case management and data tracking
• Ability to remain professional and tactful.

Education and Experience:

• Certifies Work Incentives Counselor (CWIC) or a Credentialed Work Incentives Planner Credentialed (WIP-C CWIP)
• HS Diploma or GED

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Job Type: Full-time

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• IPS Services: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Certified Work Incentive Counselor CWIC (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Charlotte, NC 28208 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Charlotte, NC 28208: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person