Eligibility Specialist (Cottage Grove)

Job Description

Job Description

ABOUT US

Founded in 1945, Lane Council of Governments (LCOG) is one of the oldest councils of governments. Overseen by a Board of Directors, we strive to enhance public services in Lane County and beyond. This collaborative journey includes partnerships with local governments and special districts in the fields of GIS Planning, Personnel Management, Transportation, and Senior and Disability Services. Located in the heart of Eugene, we are home to a thriving university, diverse nightlife, and access to ample recreational opportunities, from the sea to the mountains.

LCOG is committed to a work environment that values the cultural, educational, and life experiences of each employee. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver culturally competent services to all members of our community. As part of our commitment to diversity, LCOG continues to be an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes with relevant transferable skills from a variety of sources and experiences. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

POSITION SUMMARY

• DIVISION: Senior & Disability Services
• SUPERVISOR: Unit Manager
• UNION REPRESENTATION: SEIU
• P OSITION PURPOSE: The Eligibility Specialist is part of a fast-paced, deadline driven team where accuracy, efficiency, and excellent customer service are essential. This position is characterized by frequent customer contact in the office or on the telephone, applying rules and policies, processing a high volume of detailed desk work, and using multiple computer databases to determine eligibility for multiple programs and program recipients. The Eligibility Specialist determines financial eligibility for all Adult and People with Disability (APD) and Self Sufficiency Program (SSP) programs, including but is not limited to Medicaid, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). This position processes applications that are new and re-certifies applications by reviewing the applicant's financial and non-financial situations. This position determines eligibility correctly and in a timely manner by following complex rules and policies including gathering appropriate documentation for the electronic case file and referring applicants with additional needs to appropriate resources.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum

• High school diploma/GED + four years of experience working in the human services field
• Or any combination of education and experience that provide the occupant with the skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the job.
• Must have a valid driver's license or an alternate means of transportation.
• Must pass a background check.

Preferred

• Experience working in the social services field with seniors and/or those with disabilities.

Professional Competencies

• ATTENTION TO DETAILS: Ability to accurately complete detailed work in a fast-paced environment.
• DECISION MAKING: Ability to make decisions and elicit pertinent information in interviewing situations while allowing dignity and respect.
• COMMUNICATION: Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• PROBLEM SOLVING: Ability to think creatively and respond to a changing environment.
• EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION SKILLS: Organizes and maintains work environment.
• TIME MANAGEMENT: Uses time effectively.
• COLLABORATION: Must work well in collaborative teams within LCOG and with external partners
• ADAPTABILITY: Must be adaptive and work well within a range of team and leadership frameworks.
• RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE: Commitment to working effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, in support of an inclusive and respectful environment.