Benefits Specialist (cover letter required)

DescriptionCover letter required.OverviewAbout CJE SeniorLife Since 1972, CJE SeniorLife, a non-profit organization guided by Jewish values, has been a trusted leader in senior services, dedicated to helping older adults live life to the fullest. Rooted in a mission of respect, compassion, and advocacy, CJE serves as a vital resource for individuals and families navigating the aging journey, offering personalized support that fosters independence, wellness, and dignity.As one of the most comprehensive senior service organizations in the Chicago area, CJE provides an integrated network of care through our Hub for Care Coordination. This holistic model ensures older adults receive the support they need-physically, emotionally, and socially-with services tailored to their evolving needs.Our wide-ranging programs include affordable housing, assisted living and memory care, home-delivered meals, transportation, legal services, adult day services and respite care, care management and coordination, counseling and support groups for older adults and caregivers, Holocaust Community Services, and lifelong learning and engagement opportunities.At CJE SeniorLife, we are proud to offer meaningful career opportunities for professionals who are passionate about enriching the lives of older adults. Our team members contribute to a mission-driven culture rooted in Jewish values and a commitment to excellence.We are a part of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.CJE SeniorLife's Benefits Services team helps older adults and their families understand and use government assistance programs and community resources, including Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, housing assistance, and other public benefits. This is a direct client service role focused on guidance, advocacy, referrals, and problem-solving for older adults in our community.Benefits Specialists are certified SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) counselors who give clear and objective information to people with questions about Medicare and Medicaid coverage. This job is hybrid, with work done remotely, at our Chicago office in West Rogers Park, and at assigned community locations.This position has the option of becoming a dues-paying member of Service Employees International Union Local 73.Compensation:$50,000 to $55,000Shift:Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesDevelops and maintains expert knowledge of government assistance programs and community resources to effectively serve older adults and their families.Attends trainings, presentations, staff meetings, and webinars to stay current on government benefits programs and shares important updates with colleagues.Provides SHIP counseling including Medicare plan comparisons, enrollment help, and support with issues such as loss of coverage, gaps in coverage, or denied claims.Conducts benefits assessments and eligibility screenings for programs such as SNAP, Benefit Access (BAA), LIHEAP, and others.Assists clients with applications and provides advocacy when needed.Provides referrals to appropriate CJE services and community resources based on client needs.Reviews affordable housing options and helps clients with applications and placement on subsidized housing waitlists.Develops and delivers community education programs on benefits topics.Provides person-centered guidance by communicating options clearly and empowering clients to make informed decisions that match their goals.Participates in required CJE onboarding, SHIP training, and ongoing professional development.Maintains client confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, all other applicable laws, and CJE policies.Completes documentation and reports accurately and on time.Other tasks as assigned.RequirementsBachelor's degree (BS, BSW, or BA) in social work, human services, gerontology, or a related field is required.A minimum of 1 year of related experience is required; experience of 2 to 3 years working with lower income clients is preferred.Experience with Medicare, Medicaid, and other government benefits programs is preferred.Russian language proficiency preferred.Full-Time Benefits for a Benefits Specialist:Medical InsuranceDental InsuranceVision InsuranceEmployee Life InsuranceSpousal & Dependent Life InsuranceLong Term & Short Term Disability Insurance401(k) Retirement PlanTuition Reimbursement for Nurses, Nurse Assistants, and CNAsEmployee Purchase DiscountsEmployee Discounts on General Merchandise and EnjoymentEmployee Assistance ProgramHealth Club DiscountsLunch and Learn ProgramsCJE SeniorLife is an equal opportunity employer. #CJESL11 Qualifications EducationBachelors of Social Work (required)Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review theKnow Your Rightsnotice from the Department of Labor.