Eligibility Specialist I (St. John Only)

Government of the Virgin Islands

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

This is entry-level work which involves interviewing customers to determine eligibility for federal and local assistance programs, such as Food Stamp, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP). An employee in this class receives supervision from a higher-level officer, who assigns and reviews work.

Requirements

High School Diploma or its equivalency
Two (2) years experience in business or clerical work or any closely related fields.
Knowledge of interviewing techniques.
Knowledge of computer applications.
Knowledge of federal rules and regulations governing social programs such as Food Stamp, Medicare, Medical Assistance, etc.
Ability to make basic mathematical computations.
Ability to absorb training in all phases of department programs.
Ability to deal tactfully with people, and maintain effective working relationships with associates.
Ability to understand and implement federal and local requirements regarding social programs.
Ability to recognize and assemble pertinent information gained from interviews.
Ability to prepare written reports and maintain routine records.
Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely.
Ability to operate adding machine and calculator.

Responsibilities

Interviews customers to determine eligibility for federal and local assistance programs, using CARIBS System; conducts paperless interviews on the computer (pAPI), in order to complete the eligibility process.
Reviews Combine Application Forms (CAP) for accuracy and completeness, using a checklist of questions.
Aids customers in verification of information, by contacting banks, employers, day care agencies (federal, local and private agencies) and family members.
Submits bank forms to banks for verification of resources.
Submits work registration forms to the Department of Labor to aid in possible employment and training of customers.
Refers TANF customers to Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS).
Submits Paternity and Child Support (pACS) packages to Department of Justice for garnishing of child support payments and/or to locate parents.
Prepares claim forms to be submitted to claims section in the event of over-payment to customers so that the agency can be reimbursed.
Prepares referral forms for Front-End Investigation Unit in order to verify information received from customers.
Prepares additional information sheets for customers to submit pending information.
Prepares Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) forms, to be submitted to supervisor for appropriate action.
Calculates household income and expenses based on information received from customers in order to determine eligibility.
Enters pertinent data in customer's files, using the computer, and files documents in case records for future reference.
Prepares and maintains logs and monthly statistical reports indicating activities of the section during said period.
Attends monthly staff meetings and bi-weekly RAP sessions, to discuss problem cases and receives updates on policy changes.
Performs other related work as required.