The Eligibility Worker is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to the determination of eligibility for income maintenance programs. This position must determine the eligibility of clients for Federal and State public assistance, while providing high-quality customer service. Provides information regarding programs and community resources. Determines and explains eligibility for all income maintenance programs. Interviews applicants to determine eligibility for food support, cash, health care, childcare assistance and emergency programs while meeting program processing deadlines. Remains objective, protects client confidentiality, and complies with data privacy rules. Diffuses consumers who may be angry, hostile, verbally or physically aggressive. Educates consumers regarding program requirements, expectations and benefits. Explains rights and responsibilities and serves as central point of communication. Refers individuals to available resources within and outside the County agency as appropriate. Approves ongoing eligibility through monthly household report forms, six-month and annual reviews, recipient reports, and collateral contact to ensure continuation of accurate benefits. Multiple County and State computer systems are used for this process. Calculates asset evaluations for couples when one spouse enters a Long-Term Care Facility or requests Elderly Waiver Services. Calculates Reimbursement amounts for cost effective reimbursements and Medicare premiums. Travels to Sleepy Eye and Springfield satellite outreach offices monthly on a rotating worker basis. Participates in continuing education and training offered by the Department of Human Services and collaborative agencies or groups. Stays up-to-date and adheres to procedural changes regarding program determination. Exhibits strong communication and analytical skills to understand and explain complex program rules. Analyzes case information for discrepancies and establish overpayments, impose disqualifications, close cases, or refer cases to the Fraud Investigator, as necessary. Successful cooperation with multiple internal and external providers to assist consumers with initial and ongoing program eligibility. Responds to consumer complaints and informs consumers of their appeal and other legal rights. Attends and testifies at appeal hearings. Regular attendance is required. Attends meetings and training, as needed. Other duties as assigned or apparent.

Education:

Two years college or vocational coursework OR One year post-secondary education plus two years' related experience OR High School graduate or equivalent and five years related experience.

Requirements:

Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the State of Minnesota. Must successfully complete a background check. Must complete and pass pre-employment testing. Knowledge and skill in Microsoft Office Suite, and computer database operations. Ability to provide optimal customer service skills. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, and have strong positive public relations skills. Effective communication with department and clients on complex information and facts. Knowledge of federal, state, and local rules and policies governing income maintenance programs. Knowledge of interviewing techniques and skill in conducting interviews. Knowledge of other sources of financial support, including Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, Veterans' benefits, Worker's Compensation, and Disability Insurance/Pension programs. Basic computation and mathematical skills. Ability to explain and interpret complex laws, rules, policies, and regulations in written or verbal form. Ability to maintain professionalism with the public, including with hostile or uncooperative individuals. Protects client confidentiality and complies with data privacy laws and rules. Ability to work under limited supervision with general autonomy in determining how objectives are achieved. Grade 6.

Entry hourly wage range:

$27.08 to $30.36, DOQ

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

EMPLOYER