Eligibility Specialist

Olmsted County has earned the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work - Southeast Minnesota designation.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $25.65 to $34.25.  Full salary range is $25.65 - $42.85.

High School diploma, G.E.D, or foreign education equivalent to a US Accredited High School Diploma and three (3) years of paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
Associate's degree from an accredited college in human services technician or related field and one (1) year of paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
 
Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under direct supervision, interviews customers applying for public assistance benefits, determines customer eligibility for programs, assesses credibility and applicability of information submitted, performs quality control functions, completes data/reports required for case management, resolves problems/complaints from customers regarding eligibility, case management decisions, or related program/benefit requirements. Coordinates with social services, child support, child care, health care providers, and a variety of other community resources, makes referrals to applicable services or organizations. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Interviews applicants/recipients to gather essential information for benefit eligibility, verifies information submitted and explains requirements of public assistance programs/policy
• Enters application and eligibility data into appropriate computer systems and processes in compliance with the rules and regulations. Follows procedures related to application redetermination, and eligibility requirements.
• Interprets and completes other necessary procedures related to application, redetermination and eligibility determination
• Handles any emergent needs of customers, processing in compliance with program policy and within required time frames
• Completes required processing of cases to maintain customer and program-related information and documents in an organized and accurate manner
• Assists with the training, orienting and mentoring of others
• Responds in a professional and timely manner to general questions/inquiries about assistance programs
• Resolves problems or complaints from customers regarding eligibility or requirements
• Assists with arranging for customer services, is responsible for customer follow-up and performs related program compliance/coordination
• Maintains current knowledge of and compiles data for federal, state and local agencies, requirements, rules and laws relating to position and job duties
• Assists customers with referrals to other community resources in a timely manner
• Completes other necessary procedures as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of rules and policy pertaining to public assistance benefit programs
• Knowledge of case management techniques
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques
• Knowledge of community resources, social services programs and other related agencies
• Skill in basic business math
• Skill in the use of computers and technology
• Ability to analyze information and facts and make sound decisions related to benefit eligibility and issuance/problem resolution
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with staff, clients and others
• Ability to handle a large volume of work in an efficient and accurate manner
• Ability to be objective
• Ability to establish and maintain accurate and systematic records
• Ability to effectively communicate and follow instructions both verbally and in writing

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.