Eligibility Specialist I (MSS)

CalHR•Crescent City, CA

11d

About The Position

Eligibility Specialist I is the entry-level classification in the Eligibility Specialist series. The role determines applicants’ and recipients’ eligibility for public assistance programs through interactive interviews and fact gathering, maintains knowledge of program regulations and procedures, processes casework through automated systems, and identifies needs for referrals to health, social, and employment services. Incumbents may bring relevant prior eligibility experience, have completed initial classroom training, or meet the required education level. They may receive classroom instruction before taking on casework and will work under close supervision while learning to determine eligibility independently and apply complex regulations. As they gain experience, they are expected to work more independently, handle more complex tasks, and manage larger caseloads. After one year of satisfactory performance, incumbents are expected to progress to Eligibility Specialist II. The position performs eligibility work for multiple aid programs, including interviewing clients, reviewing and verifying information, determining benefit levels, maintaining case records, explaining program and health insurance options, and making referrals. The recruitment may be used to fill full-time, part-time, and extra-help positions as vacancies occur.

Requirements

Meet one of the following minimum qualification patterns: one year of full-time experience as an Eligibility Specialist Trainee in an Interagency Merit System county; one year of full-time experience determining eligibility for health programs, loans, financial assistance, unemployment, or other benefits plus two years of clerical work involving public contact; two years of full-time experience determining eligibility for such programs or benefits; four years of full-time clerical work involving public contact, interviewing, math computations, form completion, or eliciting information from the public; or graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.
Qualifying education and experience may be combined; 15 semester units or 22.5 quarter units equal six months of experience.
Complete the entire Training & Experience Examination and receive a minimum score of 70% to qualify for the eligible list.
Possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, ability to work cooperatively, and health consistent with performing assigned duties.
Provide proof of ability to work in the United States as a condition of employment.
A valid driver's license may be required at appointment; employees may also be required to drive their own car and provide proof of insurance and a DMV clearance.

Responsibilities

Conduct interactive interviews to collect and verify eligibility, financial, employment, tax, and demographic information.
Analyze information to determine initial and continuing eligibility for multiple public assistance programs.
Explain program rules, regulations, policies, client rights, responsibilities, and eligibility.
Ensure application and declaration forms are accurate and complete.
Resolve discrepancies by obtaining documentation, medical records, and confirmations from other agencies.
Enter and retrieve information and issue benefits through automated computer systems.
Calculate and determine client benefit levels, including through complex computations or computer entries.
Review client and third-party forms and information to support eligibility determinations.
Evaluate clients for Advanced Payment Tax Credits and explain Covered California plan options, costs, and features.
Monitor ongoing eligibility, obtain updated information, and take appropriate action when eligibility factors change.
Assess needs and refer clients to employment, social service, and other community agencies.
Organize and prioritize caseloads to meet deadlines established by regulations and local policy.
Maintain clear and readable case records, narratives, forms, and computer documents.
Troubleshoot task and case issues and involve the Help Desk when needed.
Communicate with clients and others while maintaining confidentiality, and respond to questions and complaints in person, by telephone, mail, or email.
Provide clients with required forms and pamphlets.
Identify suspected fraud and refer cases for investigation.
Participate in special projects, studies, work assignments, and committees.
Prepare correspondence and reports and perform related duties as assigned.