Eligibility Specialist

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in human services, business, finance, or related field.
OR
Associate’s degree from an accredited college in human services, business, finance, or related field (1) year of paid experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
Combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Expected starting salary is $26.23 to $35.02.  Full salary is $26.23 to $43.81

Under direct supervision, supports a high number of individual and family applications to access public assistance programs including medical assistance, food support, cash, childcare and emergency assistance. Conducts detailed interviews and determines eligibility. Manages an assigned caseload, maintains client records, and processes renewals. Ensures data accuracy and compliance. Coordinates with other agencies and community resources to connect clients with support. Maintains knowledge of current federal and state policies, bulletins, and procedures. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Interviews applicants and gathers essential information for benefit eligibility, verifies information submitted and explains requirements of public assistance programs/policy
• Enters application and eligibility data into appropriate computer systems and processes in compliance with the rules and regulations. Follows procedures related to application redetermination, and eligibility requirements.
• Interprets and completes other necessary procedures related to application, redetermination and eligibility determination
• Handles any emergent needs of customers, processing in compliance with program policy and within required time frames
• Completes required processing of cases to maintain customer and program-related information and documents in an organized and accurate manner
• Assists with the training, orienting and mentoring of others
• Responds in a professional and timely manner to general questions/inquiries about assistance programs
• Resolves problems or complaints from customers regarding eligibility or requirements
• Assists with arranging for customer services, is responsible for customer follow-up and performs related program compliance/coordination
• Maintains current knowledge of and compiles data for federal, state and local agencies, requirements, rules and laws relating to position and job duties
• Assists customers with referrals to other community resources in a timely manner
• Completes other necessary procedures as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of rules and policy pertaining to public assistance benefit programs.
• Knowledge of case management techniques.
• Knowledge of community resources, social services programs, and other related agencies.
• Skill in basic business math.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Skill in interviewing techniques.
• Ability to maintain confidential information. 
• Ability to make decisions based on program eligibility.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with others.
• Ability to process a large volume of work in an efficient and accurate manner
• Ability to establish and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to effectively communicate and follow instructions both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deescalate stressful situations while remaining calm and objective. 
• Ability to effectively prioritize work and independently manage time.
   

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.