Eligibility Specialist (FNS)

Union County•Monroe, NC

About The Position

The Eligibility Specialist works under general supervision to determine eligibility and provide ongoing caseload management for economic service assistance programs, including Food and Nutrition Services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (Work First), Childcare, Families and Children, and/or Adult Medicaid. The role assesses customers’ service needs, applies established caseload management techniques, and participates in staff and program development. It requires tact, courtesy, sound judgment, and effective working relationships with county employees, outside organizations, and the public. The specialist interviews customers, responds to questions about benefits and eligibility, explains program requirements and options, and coordinates referrals and services. The role evaluates and verifies information, calculates and authorizes assistance, documents case findings, updates information in computer systems, completes recertifications, and refers potential fraud for investigation. The specialist also maintains case records and reports, supports hearings and training activities as needed, and may temporarily serve as a lead worker.

Requirements

High school diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED).
Two years of paraprofessional, clerical, or other public-contact experience.
Basic Excel knowledge.
Applicants required to work with children in any capacity must electronically submit fingerprints for a state and national criminal history record; the position may be subject to a fingerprint background check.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in Human Services Technology, Social Services, Business Administration, or a closely related curriculum.
Eligibility determination experience.
Three years of paraprofessional, clerical, or other public-contact experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with NC FAST or another eligibility determination system.
Fluency in Spanish and English.

Responsibilities

Conduct customer interviews in person, by telephone, or through third-party verification to determine eligibility, including using ex parte information, and follow up within established guidelines.
Respond to questions about benefits, the application process, and program eligibility; explain public assistance program requirements and options.
Assess customer needs, make appropriate referrals, coordinate services, and provide guidance in crisis situations.
Compute and authorize assistance amounts for different programs.
Evaluate and verify information and documentation, and apply federal, state, and county policies and procedures within prescribed timeframes.
Coordinate with other programs to ensure proper processing.
Document case findings accurately and on time, and enter and update data in multiple computer systems, including Compass and NC FAST.
Identify cases for potential fraud investigation and submit appropriate referral documentation.
Complete client eligibility recertifications and assist with local and state hearings as necessary.
Maintain case records and management reports using computer skills and documentation.
Schedule unit eligibility activities, set priorities, meet deadlines, and participate in training to enhance job performance.
Research and apply policies and procedures from integrated manuals, job aids, and administrative letters, requesting clarification when needed.
Apply pertinent federal, state, and local codes, laws, and regulations.
Maintain cooperative and courteous relationships with division employees, other divisions, organizations, and the public.
Assist the supervisor with peer training as requested and may assist with community awareness presentations.
May temporarily serve as a lead worker, carrying out designated responsibilities under established policies and procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned.