Eligibility Specialist II

State of Maine•Lewiston, ME

9d•$23 - $32•Hybrid

About The Position

This position, within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), plays a vital role in connecting Maine residents to key programs such as MaineCare (health insurance for lower-income adults, children, older adults, and people with disabilities), SNAP (food benefits), and TANF (cash assistance). The role involves helping individuals navigate important life situations while ensuring accuracy in determining eligibility for these programs. The work environment is described as fast-paced, collaborative, and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Requirements

A four (4) year combination of education, training, and/or progressively responsible experience in a social services setting demonstrating interviewing and data gathering skills necessary for eligibility determinations, claims resolutions, and/or customer service requests.
OR a Bachelor's 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 simultaneously, including performing intermediate mathematical calculations.
Utilize multiple technology systems to enter, review, and verify eligibility-related data and documentation.
Clearly communicate program rules, requirements, and decisions to applicants and recipients through written, phone, and in-person interactions.
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.
Engage in outreach efforts 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 with varying needs, helping them navigate complex systems during critical moments.

Benefits

13 paid holidays
3+ weeks of vacation leave annually (accrual increases with years of service)
Personal leave for overtime-exempt employees
12 days of sick leave per year
Health insurance coverage with the State of Maine paying 85%-95% of employee-only premiums
Health Insurance Premium Credit (decreases employee-only premiums by 5%)
Dental insurance with the State of Maine paying 100% of employee-only premiums
Retirement Plan through the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) with a 14.06% employer contribution
Gym Membership Reimbursement (up to $40 per month)
Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
Living Resources Program (employee assistance program)
Six weeks of fully paid parental leave for all employees welcoming a child
Voluntary Deferred Compensation (MaineSaves 457(b) account)