Eligibility Specialist I

About the Role

As an Eligibility Specialist, you will oversee a caseload of Child Care Assistance (CCA) customers to ensure positive employment outcomes. The position is responsible for consumer education, customer intake, eligibility determination for the waiting list, child care transfers, attendance follow-up, parent share of cost reductions, suspensions, and managing adverse actions that reduce or terminate services. You will adhere to strict policy standards, including timely processing of information. Time management, attention to detail, and the ability to transpose data from paper to the computer quickly and accurately are critical. Contacting customers to gather necessary information, explain outcomes, and discuss customer rights and responsibilities is required. Effective communication and the ability to terminate services when applicable are essential.

Responsibilities

• Determine eligibility, maintain, and complete all eligibility records for case files, including eligibility screening, assessment of family needs, assessing parent share of costs, and processing appropriate enrollment forms. Adhere to state and local policies and accurately determine eligibility based on confidential financial documentation. Discontinue services when necessary.
• Process eligibility paperwork, drops, and transfers, and maintain the customer database accurately within required timeframes established by funding sources. Manage a high volume of case files and data entry daily.
• Provide customer service and consumer education by interpreting and communicating state and local policies and procedures in an understandable manner. Educate new customers and offer solutions for related issues, including alternatives for those not eligible for the program.
• Provide backup support for team members and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent; Associate’s degree preferred. Child Development experience is a plus.
• 1 year of experience in non-profit, government, or workforce development programs with direct experience in eligibility determination is preferred. General office work is acceptable.
• Must adapt to frequent policy changes and demonstrate flexibility.
• Above-average critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with a results-driven approach.
• Ability to accurately interpret and understand customer correspondence.
• Excellent task management skills, including organization, attention to detail, time management, multitasking, and prioritizing work.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Must promote a positive work environment and maintain prompt and regular attendance.
• Outstanding business ethics.

Work Environment

• Typical office environment; may include nights and weekends.
• Work requires normal physical effort, including the ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Cognitive/mental demands include visual attention, manual dexterity, and coordination.
• Daily contact with customers, local funders, and Federal/State funding agencies.
• Travel is required. Must have reliable transportation, a valid Texas driver’s license, proof of liability insurance, and a driving record acceptable to the employer’s automobile liability insurance carrier.

This position reports to the Program Supervisor and does not involve supervisory responsibilities.