Disability Determination Adjudicator I

at State of Vermont in Waterbury, Vermont, United States

Job Description

Help make a difference! Join the Disability Determination Services (DDS) team and help determine medical eligibility for Social Security and Medicaid disability benefits. We are looking for an organized, detail-oriented individual with strong reasoning skills to review and analyze medical and non-medical evidence, make policy compliant decisions, and collaborate with medical consultants, applicants, and staff.

DDS offers a hybrid telework option, requiring at least three days in the office each week. We understand how challenging learning a new position such as this can be and offer extensive support as you learn. You'll receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from experienced trainers, mentors, and management in a collaborative, flexible work environment focused on work-life balance as you learn the job and beyond.

Responsibilities include:

• Seeking and investigating, then analyzing and evaluating, medical and psychological evidence, subjective and objective data, and medical and non-medical statements and opinions, for the purpose of concluding applicant's residual functional capacity to work. 
• Performing duties with increasing latitude and independence of medical, judicial, discretionary and evaluative judgment as they become familiar with the job duties, medical diagnosis, treatment, severity, functional impact issues, applicable laws, court case decisions, Social Security Rulings, and regulatory and policy guidelines. 
• Deciding initial claims, while the higher levels handle appeals and periodic reviews of eligibility as well. At this first level, the adjudicator, in collaboration with medical consultants, has discretion for the medical/functional assessment of all adult physical impairments. 
• Receiving more input and direction from medical consultants with regard to the impact of mental impairment and childhood disability evaluation. 

All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Staff say they stay at the DDS for the supportive management team, welcoming work environment, helpful colleagues, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. If you are ready for a rewarding challenge, apply today!

Incumbents must organize and cope with highly complex, detailed information and a heavy caseload with exacting requirements for simultaneous quality, timeliness, productivity and cost-effectiveness. Duties are performed in an office setting and/or via telework. Duties are normally performed during regular office hours, but some flexibility is granted based on employee and office needs. Very occasional weekend hours may be required. Incumbents can expect to encounter emotional and stressful situations in dealing with clients with severe disabilities and financial hardship.