Eligibility Specialist II – Food & Nutrition Services

Catawba County Government•Hickory, NC

16h•$44,367•Onsite

About The Position

Catawba County Social Services is seeking a detail-oriented and compassionate Eligibility Specialist II to join our Food & Nutrition Services team. This position plays a vital role in determining and maintaining eligibility for individuals and families seeking food assistance, ensuring benefits are calculated accurately and delivered within strict county, state, and federal deadlines.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Human Services, Business, or a closely related field and 1 year of experience as an Income Maintenance Caseworker; OR High school diploma or GED equivalent and 3 years of demonstrated experience with mathematical work and/or public contact involving interviewing, gathering, and compiling information, and 1 year of experience as an Income Maintenance Caseworker
Ability to multitask and exercise sound, practical judgment in a fast-paced environment
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and apply policies and procedures to a wide range of individual situations
Ability to clearly explain complex program requirements to clients with varying levels of understanding
Excellent computer, time management, and organizational skills
Ability to maintain professionalism and composure when working with irate or distressed individuals
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with employers, landlords, community colleges, other agencies, and the public
Commitment to treating all citizens with dignity and respect in every interaction

Nice To Haves

1 year or more of Income Maintenance experience in Medicaid or Food and Nutrition Services eligibility

Responsibilities

Interview applicants and existing clients to gather information needed to determine eligibility for Food & Nutrition Services benefits
Collect, verify, and analyze information from a variety of sources (employers, landlords, financial institutions, other agencies, and state systems) to certify households for benefits
Manage an ongoing caseload, including redeterminations, changes in income or household composition, and other case updates
Educate clients on the budgeting process, benefit calculation, and their rights and responsibilities, including how to report changes to avoid overpayment or fraud
Investigate and resolve discrepancies, and refer suspected agency or client errors to the Program Integrity unit as needed
Coordinate with other departments and agencies to ensure continuity of services and respond to reported changes
Offer voter registration opportunities and issue Fishing License Waivers as required
Refer applicants and recipients to additional community resources as appropriate
Participate in public outreach efforts to promote awareness of the Food & Nutrition Services program
Maintain strict confidentiality and security of sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, employment data, and medical records