Eligibility Specialist

County of Anoka • Blaine, MN

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Anoka County Economic Assistance Department seeks an Eligibility Specialist to help provide effective services that uphold dignity and promote self-sufficiency. Under general supervision, the specialist determines eligibility for public assistance programs, manages caseloads, and provides case management and customer service to help individuals and families achieve stability and independence. The role involves assessing client needs, verifying complex documentation, making accurate and timely benefit determinations, and applying federal and state regulations. Specialists independently resolve moderately complex cases and escalate more advanced issues to senior staff as needed. They collaborate with county departments and external agencies, maintain detailed records, advocate for clients, and connect them with community resources.

This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position based at the Blaine Human Service Center in Blaine, Minnesota. The position is currently designated for hybrid remote work, with onsite work expected an average of twice per month or more as needed. Expected hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; flexible scheduling may be available. Occasional travel to other county work sites may be required.

Requirements

• High school diploma and at least 2 years of job-related experience; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, explain complex rules and programs, correspond proactively, and conduct interviews by phone or in person.
• Ability to interpret federal laws, state statutes, and regulations relating to public assistance programs.
• Ability to interpret financial documents such as tax documents, insurance policies, trusts, and retirement accounts.
• Ability to organize work, set priorities, make sound decisions, and work independently under stress while maintaining clear, concise, and accurate records and reports.
• Ability to interpret and follow complex oral and written procedures.
• Ability to enter data accurately and navigate computerized data and case management systems.
• Good judgment, compassion, and tact in dealing with clients.
• Ability to perform mathematical computations accurately and quickly.

Nice To Haves

• Currently employed as an eligibility specialist within the State of Minnesota, or previously employed as one within the last 12 months.
• Three or more years of full-time experience administering public assistance programs in Minnesota.
• Three or more years of full-time experience determining eligibility for SNAP, Medical Assistance through MAXIS, or Medical Assistance through METS.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Behavioral Science, Human Services, Education, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of public assistance programs in accordance with federal and state regulations.
• Meet with clients to assess needs and apply regulations and work procedures to verify and determine benefits and eligibility.
• Interview clients, process required paperwork, and determine eligibility for public assistance programs.
• Determine initial and continuing eligibility for public assistance programs in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Interpret complex information from records and documents to determine eligibility.
• Work collaboratively with other county departments and external agencies.
• Advocate for clients, coordinate services, and connect clients with appropriate resources.
• Provide customer service by phone and in person, including working with clients in crisis or high-stress situations.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records supporting eligibility, meet monthly deadlines, and accurately use software programs.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group as assigned.

Benefits

• 24 days of paid flexible time off.
• Up to 12.5 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive insurance, including medical, dental, vision, and flexible benefits.
• Employee medical and dental clinic at the Anoka County Government Center.
• Pension plan and other retirement investment options.
• Advancement and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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