Eligibility Specialist II
About The Position
The Eligibility Specialist II helps Maine residents access MaineCare, SNAP, TANF, and other supportive programs. The role involves evaluating information and applying program standards to make accurate, often complex eligibility decisions for one or more programs. Work is fast-paced, collaborative, and mission-driven, with an emphasis on customer service, problem solving, and teamwork. The position is based in Skowhegan and allows partial telework with management approval. The specialist communicates program rules, requirements, and decisions to applicants and recipients in writing, by phone, and in person. The role also includes processing and verifying information and documentation, connecting people with additional services, conducting outreach, and representing the Department at administrative hearings. The position is with the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Family Independence.
Requirements
- A four-year combination of education, training, and/or progressively responsible experience in a social services setting demonstrating interviewing and data-gathering skills used to form the basis for eligibility determinations, claims resolutions, and/or customer service requests; or a bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Business Administration, or another related field.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Responsibilities
- Evaluate information and apply program standards to make accurate, complex eligibility decisions, often involving multiple programs.
- Perform intermediate mathematical calculations as part of eligibility determinations.
- Use technology systems to enter, review, and verify eligibility-related data and documentation.
- Explain program rules, requirements, and decisions to applicants and recipients in writing, over the phone, and in person.
- Review and process information received electronically or by mail to ensure completeness and compliance.
- Connect individuals with additional programs and services that may support their health and well-being.
- Conduct outreach to provide program information, accept applications, and determine eligibility.
- Gather evidence, develop reports, and represent the Department at administrative hearings.
- Work with people from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs to help them navigate complex systems.
Benefits
- 13 paid holidays and at least three weeks of annual vacation leave, with accrual increasing with years of service.
- Personal leave for overtime-exempt employees.
- 12 days of sick leave per year.
- The State pays 85%–95% of employee-only health insurance premiums, depending on salary.
- A 5% employee-only health insurance premium credit for qualifying participation.
- The State pays 100% of employee-only dental insurance premiums.
- The State contributes an amount equivalent to 14.06% of employee pay to MainePERS.
- Gym membership reimbursement of up to $40 per month.
- Health and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
- Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness.
- Employee assistance program through the Living Resources Program.
- Six weeks of fully paid parental leave for employees welcoming a child, including non-birthing and adoptive parents.
- Additional unpaid leave may be available under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
- Voluntary deferred compensation through a MaineSaves 457(b) account.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
