Eligibility Specialist II

State of Maine • Portland, ME

6d • $22 - $30

About The Position

The position of Eligibility Specialist II determines initial and continued eligibility for public assistance programs. This vacancy is within the Long-Term Care Eligibility Unit and has a strong focus on MaineCare policy. The position may also perform quality control work by reviewing eligibility decisions made by others. Work is done in a fast-paced environment that has high standards for customer service and program accuracy. The position gathers sensitive and personal information to make timely and accurate eligibility determinations. Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills are necessary as the Eligibility Specialist interacts with people from different walks of life and/or in various emotional states.

Requirements

• A four (4) year combination of education, training, and/or progressively responsible experience a social services setting which demonstrates interviewing and data gathering skills as needed to form basis for judgments in eligibility determinations, claims resolutions, and/or customer service requests– OR – a Bachelors Degree in Social Services, Business Administration, or other related field

Responsibilities

• Evaluate information and apply program standards to accurately determine complex eligibility decisions, often for multiple programs at the same time. This includes performing intermediate mathematical calculations.
• Use multiple technology systems to enter, review, and verify eligibility-related data and documentation.
• Clearly explain program rules, requirements, and decisions to applicants and recipients—in writing, over the phone, and in-person.
• Reviews 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.
• Engage in outreach efforts to provide program information, accept applications, and determine eligibility.
• Gather evidence, develop reports, and represent the Department at administrative hearings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential as you’ll work with people from diverse backgrounds, with varying needs, and help them navigate complex systems during moments that matter.

Benefits

• Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($12,845.82 - $15,112.76 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Health Insurance Premium Credit – Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.
• Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($395.72 annual value).
• Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).
• Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including fathers and adoptive parents—receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave.
• Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
• State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees