Eligibility and Employment Specialist I/II

This recruitment is limited to the first 60 applicants and will close upon receiving 60 applications. Positions are available at Level I and Level II.

Pay

• Level I: $1,723.20 - $2,308.80 biweekly ($21.54 - $28.86 per hour)
• Level II: $1,811.20 - $2,425.60 biweekly ($22.64 - $30.32 per hour)

New employees generally start at the beginning of the salary range. The salary range has 7 steps, with employees typically starting at step 1 and advancing one step annually upon successful performance. Each step represents a 5% increase.

About the Role

Under direct or general supervision, determines the eligibility of applicants and recipients of Department Employment and Social Services (DESS) public assistance programs through interactive interviews and fact gathering. May provide guidance and work plans to resolve employment barriers, ensure adherence to DESS policies, and perform related duties as assigned.

Supervision

Receives direct (Level I) or general (Level II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

Class Characteristics

• Eligibility and Employment Specialist I: Entry-level classification. Incumbents learn and perform eligibility determinations under close supervision, progressing to more varied and complex assignments as experience is gained.
• Eligibility and Employment Specialist II: Journey-level classification. Incumbents perform the full range of duties independently, exercising judgment and initiative with minimal supervision.
• Eligibility and Employment Specialist III: Advanced journey-level classification. Incumbents handle complex tasks requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment, mentor staff, and represent DESS at community events.

Progression to Level II or III requires management affirmation, satisfactory performance, meeting minimum qualifications, and approval.

Responsibilities

• Interview clients with complex barriers to determine eligibility for public assistance programs and services; manage employment and social services plans.
• Review and analyze client data to determine initial and continuing eligibility; verify accuracy and validate documentation.
• Assist clients in accessing community services; refer clients to supportive services and counsel on employment barriers.
• Conduct community outreach to increase awareness of public assistance programs.
• Explain program rules, rights, and responsibilities to clients; assist with form completion and information searches.
• Perform case management: organize files, prepare correspondence, update databases, and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Complete enrollment processes, assess client compliance, and apply sanctions as required.
• Resolve discrepancies, investigate potential fraud, and report to supervisors.
• Approve supportive services and ancillary payments; input client data into statewide systems.
• Maintain confidentiality of client information in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974.
• Demonstrate courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and staff.

Qualifications

Knowledge Of:

• Social service needs of individuals and families; methods to support self-sufficiency.
• Federal, state, and local laws governing public assistance program eligibility.
• Case management methods, practices, and procedures.
• Techniques for effective interviewing, information gathering, and customer service.
• English language structure, composition, and grammar.
• Modern business equipment and software relevant to work performed.

Ability To:

• Provide sensitive program services to clients with diverse needs.
• Learn about local community resources and promote County services.
• Work as part of a team to ensure optimal client care.
• Educate and motivate clients; demonstrate effective customer service skills.
• Interact with people of diverse backgrounds and apply relevant laws and regulations.
• Prepare clear records, reports, and correspondence; maintain accurate files.
• Organize work, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Use computer systems and software effectively.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain positive working relationships.

Education and Experience

Any combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. Typical qualifications include:

• Completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.
• Level I: Two (2) years of customer or clerical services experience interviewing or gathering information for business purposes.
• Level II: Six (6) months of experience in case management or eligibility determination for public assistance programs, or equivalent experience at Level I.
• Level III: Two (2) years of experience in case management and eligibility determination for public assistance programs.