Program Eligibility Specialist

Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County, Inc. • Bakersfield, CA

1d

About The Position

Helping People. Changing Lives.
Please note that this is a limited term position and is estimated to end December 2026. The ideal candidate will be fluent in two or more languages, including one that supports the needs of the program and community.
As a Program Eligibility Specialist (PES), you will determine eligibility for state and federally funded programs and build trusting relationships with families. You'll handle requests and inquiries, maintain documentation, and support CAPSLO’s mission by ensuring the proper administration of Early Head Start, Head Start, and State Child Development programs.
What we are seeking in the ideal candidate:
Depending on the department assigned, a valid California driver’s license, a current DMV driving record, and proof of insurance may be required to fulfill job-related travel. Reasonable accommodations will be considered in accordance with applicable laws.
Level I:
Has a High School Diploma.
Has two years of education and/or experience in a related field (e.g., Child Development, Social Science, Human Development, Liberal Studies).
Has one year of experience in client casework or eligibility setting.
Is bilingual/biliterate in English and Spanish.
An Associate’s Degree is preferred.
Level II:
Has a combination of related education and/or experience totaling five years in administrative functions, case management, or eligibility determinations.
Has one year of experience as a Program Eligibility Specialist I or equivalent experience.
Is bilingual/biliterate in English and Spanish.
A Bachelor’s Degree is preferred.
Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

• Has a High School Diploma.
• Has two years of education and/or experience in a related field (e.g., Child Development, Social Science, Human Development, Liberal Studies).
• Has one year of experience in client casework or eligibility setting.
• Is bilingual/biliterate in English and Spanish.
• Has a combination of related education and/or experience totaling five years in administrative functions, case management, or eligibility determinations.
• Has one year of experience as a Program Eligibility Specialist I or equivalent experience.
• Is bilingual/biliterate in English and Spanish.

Nice To Haves

• An Associate’s Degree is preferred.
• A Bachelor’s Degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face and phone interviews to determine eligibility.
• Process verification needs and prepare childcare contracts.
• Maintain accurate files and documentation.
• Communicate changes promptly to staff and families.
• Attend and participate in relevant meetings.
• Perform mathematical computations related to eligibility.
• Enter and manage data in approved software.
• Collect and maintain data for reports and audits.
• Process attendance records and address excessive absences.
• Prepare and manage parent fee billings and reports.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees