PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Location: Fort Smith, AR | Posting End Date: August 26, 2026

About the Role

The Program Eligibility Supervisor/Expert oversees the daily operations of program eligibility staff, ensuring accurate and efficient eligibility determinations for state-administered assistance programs. This position provides leadership, guidance, and support to a team responsible for processing applications, reviewing eligibility cases, and delivering high-quality customer service to Arkansas residents. Non-supervisory roles will serve as senior technical experts.

Responsibilities

• Supervise, train, and support a team of eligibility specialists, caseworkers, or analysts.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, policies, and procedures related to program eligibility.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve team efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.
• Oversee the review and processing of program applications and eligibility determinations.
• Ensure accurate and timely case decisions based on program policies and applicant qualifications.
• Monitor case documentation, reporting, and record-keeping for accuracy and compliance.
• Conduct quality assurance reviews and audits to identify and correct errors.
• Address complex eligibility issues and escalate cases requiring higher-level review.
• Resolve customer complaints and inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Analyze trends in program applications, eligibility approvals, and error rates to improve operations.
• Prepare reports on program performance, caseload statistics, and compliance findings.

Requirements

• At least three years of experience in eligibility determination, case management, social service administration, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.
• Formal education equivalent of a bachelor’s degree in sociology, psychology, or a related field; plus three years of experience in determining eligibility for Social Service programs, including two years in a supervisory or leadership capacity (preferred).

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Skills

• Strong understanding of eligibility determination processes, regulations, and case management.
• Ability to analyze complex cases, apply policies, and make informed decisions.
• Proficiency in data entry, reporting systems, and case management software.
• Skilled in analyzing issues, identifying solutions, and making sound judgments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with staff, applicants, and agency officials.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and manage caseloads effectively.

Pay

Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351.01 | Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879 | Pay Grade: SGS07

Benefits

• Pension
• Maternity leave
• Paid state holidays

At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.