Eligibility Specialist

Turning Point of Central California, Inc. • Salinas, CA

13d • $23 - $31 • Onsite

About The Position

The Eligibility Specialist, reporting to the Program Director, plays a critical role in supporting our youth employment program, a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funded initiative. The WIOA Program is a collaborative partnership with the Monterey County Workforce Development Board (MCWDB). Its mission is to motivate and support youth in gaining the skills, confidence, and self‑esteem needed to become accountable and responsible members of their communities.

In alignment with WIOA Youth Program requirements, the Eligibility Specialist ensures that all applicants meet federal eligibility guidelines for in‑school or out‑of‑school youth, including documentation of qualifying barriers for people whose income is below the poverty threshold, who have past or present justice involvement, who are experiencing homelessness, foster care history, disabilities, or a need for additional assistance.  The Eligibility Specialist conducts structured interviews, eligibility screenings, and objective assessments to determine suitability and readiness for program services. This role supports the multidisciplinary team by enrolling eligible youth into program components designed to deliver high‑impact educational, vocational, and employment‑readiness services.

Additionally, the Eligibility Specialist provides comprehensive clerical and administrative support, maintains confidential client records, processes program transactions, and ensures compliance with WIOA requirements. Because WIOA integrates education, counseling, vocational experiences, and supportive services, the Eligibility Specialist plays a vital role in connecting youth to the program’s wraparound resources, including work experiences, job preparation assistance, guidance and counseling, and follow‑up services, core elements prescribed under WIOA Youth.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required. An associate’s degree in business, Human Services, or a related field is preferred; however, the degree may be substituted with two (2) or more years of experience in a related field.
• Basic bookkeeping and business math skills, including accurate record‑keeping, data entry, and financial tracking.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly, professionally, and compassionately to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience working directly with individuals facing financial or personal challenges, showing patience, empathy, and resilience in high‑stress situations.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity, discretion, and sound judgment.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment and support shared program goals.
• Intermediate computer skills in Office 365, Teams, Zoom and other communication/meeting platforms.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a dependable means of transportation that is properly insured and operated in accordance with all laws. Agency insurer authorization is required.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and TB test.

Responsibilities

• Implements targeted outreach and recruitment strategies to identify eligible youth and meet contract performance goals, ensuring strong community visibility and engagement.
• Facilitates eligibility orientations and employment‑readiness workshops, providing clear guidance on program expectations, requirements, and opportunities.
• Prepares and maintains comprehensive orientation materials, including completing orientation checklists and assembling participant folders to ensure consistent onboarding in alignment with contract requirements.
• Accurately completes and submits all required WIOA documentation to Workforce Development Board staff, ensuring compliance with reporting standards and timelines.
• Reviews and verifies Workforce Development Board and CalWorks data, maintaining accuracy and ensuring alignment with contract and regulatory requirements.
• Represents the Youth Employment Program at America’s Job Center locations, promoting services, strengthening partnerships, and assisting with participant referrals.
• Prepares, updates, and monitors participant status rosters and related forms, ensuring all documentation aligns with contract procedures and audit requirements.
• Maintains an organized and up‑to‑date database of Performance‑Based Outcomes, supporting program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts.
• Responds to incoming phone calls, providing excellent customer service and routing inquiries to appropriate staff members.
• Conducts follow‑up contacts with exited participants, tracking outcomes, offering continued support, and ensuring compliance with WIOA follow‑up requirements.
• Provides case management support as needed, assisting participants with goal-setting, progress monitoring, and connecting them to supportive services.
• Coordinates, tracks, and processes the purchase of client support services, ensuring timely access to transportation, work attire, supplies, and other approved resources.
• Delivers employer and community awareness activities, promoting program services, building partnerships, and supporting work-based learning and job placement efforts.
• Cross‑trains in other program functions to ensure operational continuity and support team collaboration during peak periods or staff absences.
• Adheres to all WIOA and MCWDB regulations, organizational policies, and confidentiality standards, ensuring program integrity and participant protection.
• Participates in required training sessions and professional development activities, staying informed about WIOA updates, best practices, and evolving program requirements.
• Will think and act quickly and efficiently in emergencies.
• Will drive on Agency business.
• Physical presence at the program is required.

Benefits

• Pay Range: Class 140 ($23.34 - $30.72/hour)
• Company paid benefits package including medical, dental, vision, Employee Assistance Program, Pension Fund and many other voluntary benefits
• Qualified non-profit for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program
• On the job training including paid professional development and career development
• Rewarding work environment with excellent opportunities for career growth
• Meaningful relationships with your co-workers and the individuals we serve
• Family-oriented environment
• Mileage reimbursement for travel
• Work Schedule: M-F and rotates with daylight savings 9am-6pm and 8:30am - 5:30pm

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED