| Location | Denver, CO |
Disability Examiner Trainee - Disability Determination Services
Salary
$30.57 Hourly
Location
Denver Metro, CO
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
IHA-05094 10.20.2026
Department
Colorado Department of Human Services
Division
OAADS - Disability Determination Services
Opening Date
10/20/2026
Closing Date
11/3/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA
Determined by Position
Type of Announcement
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Primary Physical Work Address
3190 S. Vaughn Way; Suite 500 Aurora, CO 80014
Hiring Pay Rate
30.57 per hour
FLSA Status
Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime compensation.
Department Contact Information
Adam.York@state.co.us
How To Apply
Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.
Department Information
This position is open to current Colorado residents only.
Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Disability Determination Services
The Division of Disability Determination Services (DDS) exists to produce accurate and timely disability determinations for the residents of Colorado in a courteous and cost-conscious manner following Social Security Administration (SSA) rules and regulations. Disability Determination Services (DDS) receives applications from SSA and makes a medical eligibility determination using SSA's criteria, found in the Program Operations Manual and Statistics (POMS) and judicial Social Security Rulings (SSRs). DDS is 100% funded by SSA. DDS gathers medical, psychological, functional, and vocational evidence to determine whether a claimant meets SSA's medical eligibility criteria, and writes a justification rationalizing its determination.
Description of Job
Hybrid Position - 2 days minimum On-site
Please note: The first 13 weeks may be 100% onsite for intensive programming training
Please note: These working arrangements are subject to change.
Disability Examiners gather medical information from the sources listed by claimants on their applications, and any new sources discovered in the claims adjudication process. They analyze that evidence using very specific and complex Social Security disability criteria, including review of medical documentation, functional documents, knowledge of medical and psychological impairments, and Social Security rules & regulations. Disability Examiners must prepare a medically and legally sufficient rationale based on their analysis of a claimant's information to justify whether the individual qualifies for disability under Social Security's rules.
DUTIES:
Adjudication and Documentation
With supervisory oversight, determines medical eligibility for disability benefits under the SSDI/SSI Program by gathering, evaluating and analyzing medical and non-medical data. Independently reviews and analyzes evidence of illness, injury, disease or other medical conditions and vocational factors, which prevent an individual from working or gaining employment and renders a determination to approve or deny disability benefits. Data is gathered through electronic requests sent via email and SSA/DDS software programs, and through written and verbal correspondence. Data is consolidated and correlated with SSDI/SSI program regulations, directives and agency guidelines to determine applicant's ability to perform physical/mental work-related functions. Also evaluates continuing eligibility for persons already receiving medical benefits using medical improvement standards. Based on preliminary evidence and Social Security disability regulations, program directives, and agency guidelines, position determines which claims will receive immediate temporary disability payments of about $500 per month plus Medicaid. The determination is carried out by accessing and evaluating electronic data. Acts to prepare medical and psychological assessments independently, which allows experienced adjudicators to expedite the initial determination of disability coordination and consultation with the state agency, medical consultants (SAMC), whose signatory input is required by statute with narrow exceptions. Medical evaluation and analysis are completed and the results are keyboarded into appropriate programs. Documents the disability decision by citing legal references from the Social Security regulations. Writes rationale to explain and justify the disability decision. Decisions and rationale are documented/recorded by keyboarding the information into the appropriate SSA/DDS software programs.
Development
Interviews applicants, various professionals (doctors, lawyers, teachers, etc.) and other interested parties to obtain necessary information. Information is documented by keyboarding it into the appropriate SSA/DDS software programs. Explains the Social Security disability programs to applicants, the public and various other professionals. Communication is accomplished in person, by phone, via SSA/DDS software programs, mail, and email.
Confers and collaborates with DDS contract medical consultants and other DDS specialists to clarify gathered data as needed. Contact is accomplished in person, via SSA/DDS software programs, written and verbal correspondence, and email.
Authorizes the purchase of medical exams, tests and procedures from physicians, hospitals, and laboratories. Authorizations are communicated by keyboarding the information into the appropriate SSA/DDS software programs.
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
Experience Only:
OR
Education and Experience:
Substitutions:
Preferred Qualifications:
Knowledge of medical terminology
Proficiency using basic computer software and email
Keyboarding proficiency
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Excellent organizational skills
Excellent customer service skills
Excellent decision-making skill
Ability to work with a diverse constituency
Conditions of Employment:
Standard background check and reference check required
This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position.
HSPD-12 (Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12) federal credentialing. Tier 2, (which includes Fair Credit Report) - Completed by DDS
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
Disclose that information on the application.
Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.
Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.
CDHS Selection Process Explanation
Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.
Minimum Qualification Screening Process
A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications in the application form. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."
You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
Comparative Analysis Process - Structured Application Review
After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve reviewing and rating of all the information you submit. The comparative analysis step may also include your results from standardized testing.
Your Work Experience/Job Duties
Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.
Supplemental Questions
Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).
Appeal Rights
You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on the State Personnel Board website.
You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review.
You can find the official appeal form here.
You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
By email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), or
Postmarked in US Mail to(1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action.
Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:
At (303) 866-3300, or
Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Directors Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within the Rules webpage.
Supplemental Information
How to Apply
The Assessment Process
For additional recruiting questions, please contact adam.york@state.co.us
About Us and Benefits
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS. In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical and dental health plans
Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage
11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center
Employee Wellness program
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
*Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Our Values
We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide.
Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement.
We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado.
Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public.
We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy.
Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans.
ADA Accommodations
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.
This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us.
EEO Statement
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer
We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Additional Support For Your Application
Toll Free Applicant Technical Support
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits
Please note that each agencys contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
01
The bottom of this job announcement provides links to additional information on how to apply, the assessment process, toll free applicant technical support, and about how the State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. Please acknowledge below that you have read the information provided in these links.
02
Your legal name is used in the hiring process for background checks. Did you use your full legal name in your application? If not, please update your information before submitting your application.
03
If you are a current or former State of Colorado employee, please list your employee number (starts with 997…). Your application may be considered incomplete if you do not provide this information. An incomplete application may not move forward in the Selection process. If you are a former or current state employee, please identify what state agency you work(ed) with and how many years of relevant state service you have related to the position you are applying for. (Ensure this is listed on your application under work experience).
04
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify your application from the current position.
05
This web link: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/3.00-Respiratory-Adult.htm#3_02 (please copy and paste the link into a web browser if it doesn't open from this link), takes you to a chart that shows the requirements to qualify for disability benefits with a certain kind of respiratory impairment. The claimant whose case you are deciding is a 5 feet 5 inches tall, 19-year-old female with an FEV1 of 1.75. Using the chart in the web link, please choose the best response:
06
We consider a person disabled under Social Security rules if he or she has a medically determinable physical or mental impairment or combination of impairments that prevents him or her from doing any substantial gainful activity, and the impairment(s) has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. "Substantial gainful activity" means performance of significant physical and/or mental activities in work for pay or profit. The tables of substantial gainful activity earnings guidelines indicate that earnings of $1,350 per month or more are considered substantial. You are adjudicating a disability claim for a 53-year-old claimant that is filing for disability due to kidney failure. In the filing forms, the claimant reports that they worked in retail as a supervisor making $1,750 per month from 06/30/2015 until their last day of work on 01/15/2022. Medical evidence in the file reports that the claimant has a medically determinable impairment of end stage kidney disease that required chronic hemodialysis as of 12/23/2021 and continues to present date. Per Social Security rules, this impairment is considered to prevent someone from doing any substantial gainful activity and is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months. You are completing a determination that the claimant is disabled. What date should you establish that the claimant first met Social Security rules?
07
Please explain why you chose your answer for number 6.
08
SSA requires that for a claim to be approved for a severe intellectual deficit, they must meet the following criteria: - Have been given a diagnosis of intellectual disability by an acceptable medical source such as a Ph.D. or M.D. - And have either a full-scale IQ on Standard tests of general intelligence of 70 or below. Or, have a full scale of 71-75 but accompanied by a verbal or performance or IQ score of 70 or below - And have daily activities consistent with intellectual disability. Please review the following case and discuss relevant medical information needed to make a determination: Medical records report an 18-year-old male claimant with a history of severe intellectual deficits and a diagnosis of intellectual disability by a Ph.D. His school records indicate valid cognitive testing with a recent valid full-scale IQ of 72. The testing psychologist disagreed with his treating source PhD's diagnosis of intellectual disability and diagnosed him with borderline intellectual functioning. Medical records also reveal a history of high blood pressure, irritable bowel syndrome and that he is overweight. His most recent medical records indicate he was seen by his primary care provider for a rash and was diagnosed with eczema. A closer look at his cognitive testing also shows he has a verbal IQ of 61, performance IQ of 74. The claimant's mother reports his activities of daily living include living with his parents, a love of trucks, a picky eater, does not drive, and requires reminders for basic tasks such as brushing teeth and bathing. He has trouble walking long distances and collects change in his piggy bank and is very affectionate to family members but is shy around strangers. Using the space below, discuss relevant medical information needed to make a determination if the claimant would be allowed or denied under SSA rules. Specifically, what was your decision and what key facts did you use to make your determination.
Required Question
Employer State of Colorado
Address See the full announcement by clicking
the "Printer" icon located above the job title
Location varies by announcement, Colorado, --
Website https://careers.colorado.gov/