Eligibility Technician

Department: Social Services

Position Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Work Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Salary:$33,334- $35,583

Reports To: Social Services Director

Position Summary

The Social Services Eligibility Technician determines initial and ongoing eligibility for public assistance programs. The position interviews applicants and recipients, reviews and verifies financial and household information, applies state and federal eligibility rules, processes applications and ongoing casework, and maintains accurate electronic case records.

The position provides information regarding program requirements, client rights and responsibilities, eligibility decisions, and available resources. Success in this position requires attention to detail, sound judgment, confidentiality, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducts interviews with applicants and recipients to gather information needed to determine eligibility.
• Determines eligibility for assigned programs, which may include Medicaid, SNAP, child care assistance, cash assistance, and other Social services programs.
• Reviews applications, reports, and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness.
• Verifies income, employment, household composition, resources, expenses, and other eligibility information.
• Uses state and other authorized computer systems to enter, retrieve, and analyze case information.
• Processes applications, changes, periodic reports, and redeterminations within established timeframes.
• Maintains accurate and complete case records and documents client contacts and eligibility decisions.
• Interprets and applies applicable federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Explains program requirements, eligibility decisions, benefits, rights, responsibilities, and appeal rights to clients.
• Assists clients with forms and required documentation and makes appropriate referrals to other services and community resources.
• Identifies and resolves discrepancies and takes appropriate action regarding overpayments, underpayments, or potential fraud.
• Participates in quality assurance activities to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Attends required training and maintains knowledge of program and system changes.
• Maintains confidentiality and communicates professionally with clients, coworkers, agencies, and community partners.
• May assist with appeals, hearings, or other related proceedings.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to learn and accurately apply complex rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to analyze information and make objective eligibility determinations.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and recordkeeping.
• Effective interviewing, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases, priorities, and deadlines.
• Strong computer skills and ability to learn specialized eligibility and case management systems.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and solve problems within established guidelines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who may be upset or frustrated.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience: Two years of responsible clerical, administrative, customer service, data entry, Social services, eligibility determination, or closely related experience preferred.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Preferred: Experience with public assistance programs, databases or electronic case management systems, policy/regulation interpretation, or Social services. Bilingual English/Spanish skills are also preferred.

Training

Successful completion of required training related to public assistance programs, eligibility rules, computer systems, documentation, confidentiality, and applicable state and federal regulations is required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work is primarily performed in a professional office environment with frequent computer and telephone use and regular interaction with the public. The position may involve contact with individuals who are frustrated, distressed, or angry.

The position requires the ability to sit or stand for extended periods, communicate effectively, read detailed information, operate standard office equipment, and occasionally bend, stoop, reach, or lift up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Disclaimer

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed in this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or requirements. Duties may be modified or reassigned as organizational needs change. This description does not constitute an employment contract.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $33,334.00 - $35,584.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Dove Creek, CO 81324 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Dove Creek, CO 81324: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $33,334 - $35,584