PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

State of Arkansas•Harrison, AR

3d•$47,397 - $70,148•Onsite

About The Position

The Program Eligibility Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals who come to a local Arkansas Workforce Center (AWC) to access UI and other partner services. Their job duties include providing support for claimants using the self‑service computers for claim filing, accepting government‑issued photo IDs and ensuring they are attached to the Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim, accepting UI documents for processing, providing printouts to claimants needing proof of income for other assistance, assisting claimants with software access for their Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment appointment, processing documents for imaging, and performing other UI duties as assigned. The role requires a high level of accountability to ensure claimants are routed to the correct partners and that all job duties are completed in a timely manner. Success in this position depends on strong communication skills to effectively engage with staff, claimants, employers, UI Administration, and other UI units including UI Claims Processing, the UI Benefits Hotline, and UI Correspondence with a focus on efficiency and protecting the integrity of the trust fund. In addition, this staff member will ensure the triage form is completed to determine other partner services needed or requested and will provide this information to the Commerce Program Supervisor/Expert for this unit. This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available. The Program Eligibility Specialist I is an entry-level position responsible for reviewing applications, verifying information, and determining eligibility for state-administered programs. This role requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, proficiency in computer keyboarding, strong verbal and written communication skills, and customer service abilities to ensure applicants receive timely and accurate determinations.

Requirements

Ability to assess applicant information and apply program guidelines accurately.
Strong attention to detail in reviewing documents and entering data.
Proficiency in basic computer applications and case management systems.
Ability to explain complex policies to applicants in an understandable manner.
Ability to prepare, present, and review oral and written information and reports.
Capacity to prioritize tasks, handle multiple cases, and meet deadlines.
Ability to analyze application issues and determine solutions.
At least one year of experience in customer service, administrative support, case processing, or a related field.

Nice To Haves

One (1) year experience working with the Unemployment Insurance program and intensive knowledge of UI system and program processes and terminology.
Experience conducting business via telephone and/or email is a must.
Ability to develop, recommend, interpret, and apply policies and procedures.
Good customer service skills - verbal and written.
Good communication skills.
Good research skills.
Good critical thinking skills.

Responsibilities

Assisting claimants using self-service computers for Ul purposes.
Accepting government-issued photo ID and attaching to the claim through the ID Website.
Accepting and processing UI documents.
Providing printouts for claimants needing proof for income-based assistance.
Assisting claimants with software access for their Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) appointment.
Responds to inquiries and processes requests from other ADWS UI units including UI Claims
Processing Ul Benefits Hotline, UI Correspondence, Automated Adjudication Systems (AAS), Benefit Accuracy Measurement (BAM), Contributions, and other units regarding individual claims or issues found.
Processing documents for imaging.
Initiate the triage form for other partner services and route individuals to the correct partner.
Provide report to Manager on triage activities.
Performs other duties as defined and assigned by UI Administration.
Review and process applications for state assistance programs in compliance with established policies.
Verify applicant information, including income, assets, residency, and household composition.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records to support eligibility decisions.
Ensure timely application processing and follow-up with applicants to gather required documentation.
Assist in monitoring ongoing eligibility and renewal processes for program participants.
Provide clear and professional communication to applicants regarding eligibility requirements, application status, and program benefits.
Assist clients in completing forms and gathering necessary documentation.
Respond to inquiries and resolve concerns related to eligibility and program participation.
Educate applicants on available resources and services to support their needs.
Ensure adherence to state and federal regulations in eligibility determinations.
Identify potential discrepancies or inconsistencies in applications and escalate cases when needed.
Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive applicant data in accordance with state privacy laws.
Prepare reports and summaries as needed for internal review and audits.