Eligibility Specialist - Trainee

BENEFITS Placer County offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees. Information regarding benefits can be obtained through Human Resources. DEFINTION To learn about determining eligibility for, or continuation of, designated and specialized client services programs and their respective benefits; to provide administrative support for designated program operations and the provision of services; to track and monitor the continuing quality of services provided and client needs to ensure compliance with program guidelines and regulations; and to function as an integral and supportive member of assigned departmental and multi-disciplinary team(s). DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the training level classification in the Eligibility Specialist series established to qualify incumbents training and experience requirements to become an Eligibility Specialist I. Trainees may have limited or no directly related work experience and are not assigned the full scope of Entry level duties. DUTIES Interview applicants and participants in designated client services programs and services; assist applicants in the completion of appropriate applications, financial disclosures, and declaration forms necessary to process applications; determine and request necessary verification and data to accurately evaluate the applicant or client’s eligibility and determine applicant’s/participant’s eligibility for designated program(s). Interpret and explain designated program(s) regulations, obligations, procedures, and other pertinent information on an individual basis, in person, by telephone, or in group settings to applicants, participants, and the general public. Educate, recommend, and determine initial and continuing eligibility in accordance with established procedures for various assigned programs including verification of reported information and of benefits provided by other jurisdictions; screen applicants/participants to determine eligibility for expedited, expanded, and/or modified services. Maintain appropriate and accurate case records, documentation, and files, including performing data entry into automated record systems; monitor and follow-up on due dates; prepare and maintain other documents associated with designated program area(s) and related reporting requirements. Recognize the need for and provide referrals to other client services and/or community resources/agencies to assist applicants/participants in identifying and utilizing the resources and services available; establish and maintain liaison with local private and public resources to provide continuity of services and awareness of designated program area(s). Assist in conducting program orientation and/or information sessions for clients, applicants, vendors, contractors, landlords, employers, and the general public to disseminate accurate information regarding assigned program area(s) and pertinent criteria, regulations, and guidelines. Perform specialized functions and tasks in support of assigned program(s) such as processing claims for reimbursement of tenant damages; prepare lease/contract documents; learn how to issue certificates, overpayments, vouchers, and checks and make referrals to fraud investigations as necessary; assist with surveys and/or field housing quality inspections relative to compliance standards. Recommend appropriate determinations according to established criteria and assigned program’s regulations; perform calculations to verify mathematical and financial data; initiate appropriate process according to determination. When assigned to the WIC program, conduct nutritional and related classes under the direction of a Nutritionist, including determining nutritional goals according to established criteria, and collecting, documenting, and evaluating clinical and dietary information. Assist with troubleshooting and the resolving system issues and inconsistencies in information as it relates to the various automated systems used for generating eligibility determinations. Perform a variety of administrative support and clerical duties related to assigned program activities to include filing, maintaining records and statistics, word processing, and answering the telephones. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other County employees, community agencies and resources, and the public utilizing principles of effective customer service. Perform related duties as assigned. WORKING CONDITIONS Work is typically performed in an indoor office environment and controlled temperature conditions. Position may require travel to and from other locations in a variety of outdoor weather conditions. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience and Training Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Education: completion of twelfth grade. Experience: six (6) months of clerical experience that includes substantial public contact. OR Completion of the equivalent of fifteen (15) semester units in social services, sociology, social work, psychology, behavioral science, business or public administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Required License or Certificate May need to possess a valid driver's license. Proof of adequate vehicle insurance and medical clearance may also be required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: Techniques of interviewing and information gathering, and record keeping practices. Modern office procedures, methods, and computer hardware and software and its applications. English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Basic mathematical calculations. Ability to: Learn, retain, and understand program information; intermittently analyze work papers; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; explain designated and specific regulations and procedures to clients and the general public. On a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently walk, stand, bend, climb, squat, twist, and reach while retrieving or returning files or making field visits; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone and write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; see with sufficient acuity to read characters on computer screen; hear and speak with sufficient acuity to communicate with clients; and lift moderate weight. Learn to apply the policies, procedures, and programs of the Health and Human Services Department. Learn to apply the laws, rules, and regulations governing eligibility for multiple public assistance programs. Learn to make referrals to appropriate agencies and programs. Learn to detect and evaluate potential fraudulent situations. Make rapid and accurate arithmetic calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Maintain strict confidentiality. Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner. Learn to plan and prioritize a caseload to ensure work is completed in accordance with regulations relating to eligibility and timeliness. Follow written and oral direction and instructions. Obtain information through interview; work fairly and courteously with the public; handle multiple case assignments; and work effectively with interruptions. Analyze situations quickly and objectively and determine proper course of action within established guidelines and parameters. Use a computer and related software applications. Use modern office equipment, such as a calculator, telephone, facsimile machine, and photocopy machine. Type at a speed necessary for successful job performance. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION Length of Probation: No specific term; employment at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority. Bargaining Unit: General FLSA Status: Non-Exempt CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT Prior to the date of hire, applicants must undergo a fingerprint test by the Department of Justice, pass a medical examination (which may include a drug screening and possibly a psychological evaluation), sign a constitutional oath, and submit proof of U.S. citizenship or legal right to remain and work in the U.S. For some positions, applicants may also be required to submit proof of age, undergo a background investigation (which may include a credit check, voice stress analysis, and/or a polygraph), and/or be bonded. Additionally, positions in law enforcement classifications and those supporting law enforcement functions will be required to complete a conviction history questionnaire prior to or during the interview process. Applicants for positions with access to Medi‑Cal billing software or who are licensed providers must clear the Federal Exclusion List, credentialing, and social security verification. Failure to clear these requirements may result in an employment offer being withdrawn. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Placer County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to an active nondiscrimination program. It is the stated policy of Placer County that unlawful harassment, discrimination, and retaliation are prohibited and that all employees, applicants, agents, contractors, and interns/volunteers shall receive equal consideration and treatment. All terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, transfer, and promotion will be based on the qualifications of the individual for the positions being filled regardless of the following characteristics: gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, race (including traits associated with race, which include, but are not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, ancestry, religion (including creed and belief), national origin, citizenship, primary language, immigration status, physical disability (Including HIV and AIDS), mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics/information), age (40 or over), marital status, military and/or veteran status, sex (including parental status, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), reproductive health decision making, the person’s use of cannabis off the job and away from the workplace, political orientation, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law or any combination of two or more characteristics stated herein. CONTACT FOR INQUIRIES For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Janine Martindale, Administrative Technician, at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Placer-County