Eligibility Specialist (Hybrid)

County of Anoka • Blaine, MN

4h • Hybrid

About The Position

The mission of the Anoka County Economic Assistance Department is to provide effective services that uphold dignity and promote self-sufficiency. Eligibility Specialists play a vital role in this mission by determining eligibility for public assistance programs, managing caseloads, and delivering case management services that help individuals and families achieve stability and independence. Working under general supervision, Eligibility Specialists leverage their expertise in public assistance programs to assess client needs, verify complex documentation, and ensure accurate and timely benefit determinations. While they independently resolve moderately complex cases, they escalate more advanced issues to senior staff as needed. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of federal and state regulations to ensure compliance and fairness in the distribution of benefits. As problem solvers and advocates, Eligibility Specialists provide essential support to individuals navigating difficult life circumstances. They collaborate with internal departments and external agencies, maintain meticulous records, and connect clients with additional community resources. Their ability to remain composed under pressure, process information efficiently, and offer compassionate service makes them invaluable in assisting those in need. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in your community and excel in a fast-paced, high volume, customer-focused environment, consider joining Anoka County Human Services as an Eligibility Specialist! This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position. Interviews will take place the week of March 2nd, 2026 for those selected to move forward in the hiring process.

Requirements

• High School diploma and at least 2 years of job-related experience in human services or public-facing roles within compliance-driven environments, interpreting guidelines, and ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
• In lieu of the required education, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Nice To Haves

• Three years or more of full-time (2,080 annual hours) experience as administering public assistance programs in Minnesota.
• One year or more of full-time (2,080 annual hours) experience determining eligibility for SNAP or Medical Assistance.
• One year or more of full-time (2,080 annual hours) experience working with MAXIS or METS.
• Experience working at the Minnesota Department of Human Services or Department of Child, Youth, and Families with public assistance programs.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Behavioral Science, Human Services, Education, or related field.
• Able to communicate effectively with clients explaining complex rules and programs over the phone or in-person.
• To proactively correspond with clients, conduct interviews and explain complex rules and programs.
• Able to interpret and understand federal laws, state statutes and regulations relating to public assistance programs.
• Able to interpret financial documents such as tax documents, insurance policies, trusts, retirement accounts, etc.
• Able to organize work, set priorities, make good decisions, and work independently under stress while maintaining clear, concise, and accurate records and reports.
• Able to interpret and follow complex oral and written procedures.
• Able to enter data accurately and navigate a variety of computerized data systems and case management systems to ensure program integrity.
• Able to use good judgement, compassion, and tact in dealing with clients.
• Able to perform mathematical computations accurately and quickly.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of public assistance programs in accordance with federal and state regulations.
• Meet with clients to assess their needs and apply regulations and work procedures to verify and determine benefits and eligibility for public assistance programs.
• Interview clients, process required paperwork and determine eligibility for public assistance programs in accordance with rules and regulations.
• Work collaboratively with other county departments and external agencies.
• Determine initial and/or continuing eligibility of applicants for public assistance in all programs in accordance with existing regulations.
• Interpret complex information from records and documents needed to determine eligibility.
• Advocate for clients.
• Coordinate services and connect clients to appropriate resources.
• Provide customer service over the phone and in person.
• Work with clients in crisis and high stress situations to meet basic needs.
• Maintain detailed, accurate records that support eligibility, meet monthly deadlines, and accurately interface with software programs.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group as assigned.

Benefits

• 24 days of paid flexible time off and up to 12.5 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive insurance, including medical, dental, vision, flex benefits and more at www.anokacountymn.gov/benefits .
• Medical and dental clinic exclusive to employees, located at the Anoka County Government Center.
• Pension plan and other retirement investment options.
• Advancement/professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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