Vocational Counselor (Social Security and Medical Assistance) 6256

Position: Vocational Counselor
Location: Olyphant, PA
Start Date: ASAP

Overview of ATHENA:
ATHENA Consulting is an award-winning staffing firm serving state and local governments. Our mission is to make lives better!

We make our Clients’ Lives Easier by engaging and supporting them, partnering to be their most knowledgeable staffing ally. We make our Employees’ Lives Better by identifying and cultivating their talents and matching these talents with our customers’ needs. ATHENA places a high value on customer service, accountability, and getting the job done.

Summary:
ATHENA Consulting is seeking a Vocational Counselor to support one of our clients located in Olyphant, PA.

This position offers a competitive salary (commensurate with experience), comprehensive benefits, and requires a pre-employment background check, fingerprinting, and drug screening.

The Vocational Counselor evaluates Social Security and Medical Assistance cases, determines the appropriate course of action, and processes case files in accordance with consultant review and case type.

Familiarity with Medicaid, the Social Security Administration, Disability Evaluation under Social Security, Listings of Impairments, and Medical Vocational Rules and Grid is required.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Master’s Degree preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Medical records background strongly desired.
• Must have excellent phone and interpersonal skills and be able to work independently.
• Must be able to multi-task and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Must demonstrate strong problem-solving and research skills (e.g., investigating missing records).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Evaluate Social Security and Medical Assistance cases, decide the appropriate course of action, and process files per consultant review and case type.
• Review certified cases and prepare Vocational Reports or letters in accordance with contractual timelines.
• Review all incoming medical records and applications.
• Prepare and sign off on Medical Assistance Only cases and related documentation.
• Prepare letters or Vocational Reports using knowledge of Social Security Rules and Regulations, Listings of Impairments, and related analysis.
• Maintain a maximum 20-minute turnaround time for dictated Vocational Reports.
• Prepare Counselor Denial Letters for daily cases lacking sufficient information.
• Review case files, highlight pertinent details, and identify the appropriate specialist for review (e.g., Internist, Psychologist, Pediatrician).
• Make development recommendations to DCD or forward to MD/PHD when records are complete.
• Assist DCD with outreach calls to clients, providers, and caseworkers as needed.
• Review cases post-approval by MD/PHD and prepare final closing summaries.
• Perform supervisory review on each case to ensure accuracy, making or requesting corrections as necessary.
• Provide annual training to DAP Advocates statewide, including updates on the Listings of Impairments, Sequential Evaluation process, and Social Security Law.
• Attend small group DAP meetings to deliver training, updates, and technical guidance.
• Consult with DAP Advocates, caseworkers, medical providers, and clients to answer questions, provide case guidance, and support case development.
• Ensure adherence to HIPAA regulations in handling all client information.
• Complete all required annual training and maintain compliance with office policies and procedures.
• Maintain excellent attendance, punctuality, and adherence to scheduled hours.
• Demonstrate professionalism, cooperation, flexibility, and willingness to assist others.
• Support Arbor/ETSF/EQUUS Legacy vision, values, and mission in all work performed.

Successful ATHENA Employees Display the Following Characteristics:

• Strive to be the best in your field.
• Take pride in making your employer look good.
• Find solutions where others see problems.
• Are proactive and follow through on commitments.
• Understand your client’s needs and deliver results.
• Collaborate effectively with diverse, integrated teams to achieve shared goals.

Benefits of Working for ATHENA:

• Support from a dedicated team of professionals committed to your success.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with a generous employer match.
• Paid time off.
• Easy-to-use employee self-service HR portal.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
ATHENA Consulting LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.

All aspects of employment decisions—including hiring, promotion, discipline, and discharge—are based on business needs, job requirements, individual qualifications, and performance. ATHENA does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by law.

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Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience working with Medicaid and the Social Security Administration (SSA), including performing or supporting Disability Evaluations under Social Security?

Education:

• Master's (Required)

Work Location: In person