Eligibility Specialist

The Early Learning Coalition of Flagler and Volus•Daytona Beach, FL

About The Position

The Eligibility Specialist supports school readiness and family services programs through eligibility processing, customer service, child care resource and referral, and program support. The role reviews eligibility applications and documentation, processes referrals and service requests, responds to applicant and provider inquiries, connects families with resources, and shares information about child care options and available support programs. The position helps ensure families receive accurate, timely, and supportive services in accordance with organizational policies, procedures, and program requirements. The position performs specialized or service-oriented work requiring consistency, accuracy, and program knowledge. It exercises judgment within established guidelines, handles routine variations and problems, and seeks guidance for complex or policy-level decisions. The specialist works with moderate supervision, supports program delivery and accurate documentation, and may serve as a resource to peers or assist with onboarding. The role is not responsible for supervising others. The position requires regular interaction with applicants, caregivers, families, and child care providers through phone, email, website chat, and other communication platforms. It also involves maintaining confidential records and using organizational systems and databases. Telework requires internet speeds of 8 Mbps download and 8 Mbps upload, and work within the immediate geographical area. Reliable transportation, minimum insurance coverage, a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and reliable mobile phone service are required. Developmentally appropriate interactions with children may be required. The stated salary is $18.56.

Requirements

Associate degree in Social Services, Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Public Administration, or a related field; relevant organizational experience and demonstrated performance may also be considered in assessing overall qualifications.
At least one year of experience in customer service, family services, eligibility support, program support, or a related field.
Experience reviewing documentation, maintaining records, and working with databases or organizational systems.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, organization, time management, attention to detail, and accuracy.
Customer service and family support skills, including professionalism, empathy, and confidentiality.
Ability to interpret and follow program guidelines, policies, and procedures, and solve problems within established procedures.
Technology proficiency, including Microsoft Office and organizational systems.
Ability to work with moderate supervision and seek guidance for complex or policy-level decisions.
Must regularly lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance.
Telework requires internet speeds of 8 Mbps download and 8 Mbps upload and work within the immediate geographical area.
Must maintain reliable transportation, minimum insurance coverage, a valid driver’s license, and a clean driving record.
Reliable mobile phone service is required for technology compliance, including multi-factor authentication.
Ability to perform the described physical activities, with reasonable accommodations available to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Nice To Haves

Experience determining eligibility for public assistance, early learning, education, social services, or related programs.
Training or experience related to trauma-informed care, Conscious Discipline, Strengthening Families, or similar family-centered approaches.
Experience providing resource referrals, family support services, or customer-facing program assistance.
Experience supporting School Readiness, early learning, or family services programs.

Responsibilities

Process eligibility applications, referrals, and related service requests according to established procedures and program requirements.
Review submitted documentation and information for completeness, accuracy, and eligibility determination purposes.
Maintain knowledge of School Readiness eligibility requirements, policies, procedures, and program updates.
Complete assigned eligibility-related activities accurately and in a timely manner.
Provide customer service and technical assistance to applicants, caregivers, families, and child care providers.
Respond to inquiries through phone, email, website chat, and other communication platforms.
Communicate application requirements, documentation needs, eligibility information, and service expectations clearly and professionally.
Provide responsive, supportive, and solution-focused service.
Process resource requests, including child care listings and referral information.
Share information about quality care indicators, child care provider types, and family support resources.
Educate families about programs, services, and community resources that may support their needs.
Assist families in identifying resources that support informed child care decisions.
Maintain eligibility records, case documentation, and supporting information according to organizational procedures.
Enter, update, review, and maintain information in organizational systems and databases.
Verify information for completeness and accuracy.
Maintain confidentiality of applicant, family, provider, and organizational information.
Support program delivery, accurate documentation, compliance, and client outcomes.
Participate in routine improvements to service delivery.
Support applicable organizational expectations for all staff.