Eligibility Examiner - HELPS PROGRAM*

About the role

Under general supervision, the incumbent follows established laws, rules, and policies set forth by the New York State Department of Social Services and all departmental protocols relating to the delivery of Temporary Assistance services. The position involves determining initial categorical classification and financial eligibility for the various programs and services the department provides.

Responsibilities

• Interview customers to gather information for eligibility determinations.
• Open new cases and work with customers on achieving self‑sufficiency goals.
• Regularly monitor cases and take action on any changes to re‑evaluate categorical classification, income maintenance, and continued financial eligibility.
• Use a variety of management database systems to maintain detailed automated records of all actions taken on cases.
• Follow established protocols for case documentation and maintenance.

Authority & distinctions from Eligibility Clerk

Unlike an Eligibility Clerk, the Eligibility Examiner (or higher‑level eligibility staff) has the authority to:

• Make eligibility determinations and redeterminations.
• Compute and authorize customer budgets.
• Open, close, or reopen cases.

Expectations & supervision

• Exercise independent judgment in planning and carrying out assignments within prescribed rules, policies, and procedures.
• May supervise Eligibility Clerks and clerical support staff.
• Provide ongoing guidance and instruction to co‑workers and subordinate staff.
• Perform related work as required.

Hiring program

The Department of Civil Service has developed a Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) program that streamlines the appointment process, allowing agencies to hire diverse, qualified permanent employees quickly and without examinations. Employees hired under the HELP program are appointed on a permanent basis; the program temporarily removes the civil service exam requirement for this title.