Eligibility Specialist

Eligibility Specialist

Under direct supervision of the Financial Assistance Supervisor, the Eligibility Specialist administers public assistance programs that support the basic needs of older adults, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families. This position determines eligibility through client interviews and evaluation of financial and household information; explains program requirements; maintains accurate case records; and coordinates services with internal and external partners. The Eligibility Specialist also supports employment services activities, addresses potential fraud, coordinates administrative appeals, and participates in ongoing professional development.

Essential Functions:

1. Determines eligibility for public assistance programs in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines. Conducts interviews and gathers required documentation. Reviews financial, household, and personal information to assess eligibility and benefit levels. Authorizes services and connects clients to appropriate resources. Maintains accurate and complete case records.
2. Administers multiple public assistance programs using applicable systems and policies. Interprets and applies complex regulations. Explains program requirements, rights, and responsibilities to clients. Prioritizes workload to meet deadlines and compliance standards. Documents case activity in accordance with state requirements.
3. Monitors and updates eligibility and benefits based on reported changes. Verifies information and ensures compliance with program rules. Coordinates services across programs and departments. Communicates requirements and timelines to clients. Provides consultation to staff on complex cases and supports service coordination with internal and external partners. Completes mandated reporting as required.
4. Develops and coordinates employment services activities. Supports employment-related program requirements. Assesses client readiness for employment and identifies barriers. Coordinates with employment services staff and monitors participation. Explains program expectations, time limits, and consequences for non-compliance, including sanctions when applicable.
5. Analyzes and addresses allegations of fraud. Identifies discrepancies and potential fraud through case review and verification processes. Calculates and establishes overpayments and applies program disqualifications as appropriate. Refers cases to the appropriate investigative unit and implements findings. Assist the County Attorney with case preparation.
6. Coordinates administrative appeals of agency actions. Responds to client appeals by explaining rights and processes. Prepares documentation and represents the agency in administrative hearings. Implements decisions in compliance with hearing outcomes.
7. Establishes and maintains collaborative relationships with internal staff, community organizations, and partner agencies. Provides information, responds to inquiries, and participates in outreach and public engagement. Advocates for client access to services and supports coordinated service delivery.
8. Promotes a diverse, culturally competent, and respectful workplace.
9. Engages positively with both internal and external customers. Communicates and interacts effectively and respectfully with colleagues, supervisors, representatives from other organizations, and the public.
10. Performs the physical and mental demands of the position.
11. Attends work during regularly scheduled hours.

Additional Functions:

1. Participates in professional staff development. Participates in training and education opportunities to maintain and improve proficiency. Attends and participates in professional organizations. Associates with employees and departments from other counties and states for collaboration.
2. Trains and mentors new staff as requested.
3. Adheres to data privacy and HIPPA guidelines.
4. Performs other related functions as apparent or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma/GED; and
• A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in any of the following areas social services, financial tracking, program eligibility, office management, and working with benefits or related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A minimum of two (2) years of post-secondary education
• Experience working with MAXIS, PRISM, MEC2 and Minnesota Healthcare computer programs
• Experience with interviewing practices and techniques
• Experience interpreting, explaining programs and determining eligibility for programs
• Proficient in understanding and speaking languages other than English, such as Spanish, Somali, Chinese, Sudanese, and Arabic, among others.

Conditions of Employment:

• Must successfully pass a background check.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the State of Minnesota.
• Must comply with all federal and state laws and organizational and departmental policies and regulations.
• Must adhere to data practices policies and standards regarding non-public data. Access to non-public data must be limited to what is necessary to perform job duties. Employees must take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized access and ensure secure storage of data in accordance with county policies and Minnesota Statutes.

Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Night, weekend, holiday, and overtime hours may be necessary to meet departmental needs, special projects, and service needs and demands of the community served.