Eligibility Specialist I (MAP)

  PLUS DIFFERENTIAL PAY

DEFINITION

This is entry-level work which involves interviewing customers to determine eligibility

for federal and local assistance programs, such as Food Stamp, Temporary Assistance for

Needy Families (T ANF) and Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP).

An employee in this class receives supervision from a higher-level officer, who assigns and reviews work.

DUTIES (NOT ALL INCLUSIVE)

Interviews customers to determine eligibility for federal and local assistance programs,

using CARIBS System; conducts paperless interviews on the computer (p API), in order

to complete the eligibility process.

Reviews Combine Application Forms (CAP) for accuracy and completeness, using a

checklist of questions. Aids customers in verification of information, by contacting

banks, employers, day care agencies (federal, local and private agencies) and family

members.

Submits bank forms to banks for verification of resources. Submits work registration

forms to the Department of Labor to aid in possible employment and training of

customers. Refers TANF customers to Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS).

Submits Paternity and Child Support (p ACS) packages to Department of Justice for

garnishing of child support payments and/or to locate parents.

Prepares claim forms to be submitted to claims section in the event of over-payment to

customers so that the agency can be reimbursed. Prepares referral forms for Front-End

Investigation Unit in order to verify information received from customers. Prepares

additional information sheets for customers to submit pending information. Prepares

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABA WD) forms, to be submitted to supervisor

for appropriate action.

Calculates household income and expenses based on information received from

customers in order to determine eligibility. Enters pertinent data in customer's files,

using the computer, and files documents in case records for future reference.

Prepares and maintains logs and monthly statistical reports indicating activities of the

section during said period.

Attends monthly staff meetings and bi-weekly RAP sessions, to discuss problem cases

and receives updates on policy changes.

Performs other related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High School Diploma or its equivalency, plus two (2) years experience in business or clerical work or any closely related fields.

FACTOR 1 - KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED FOR THE POSITION

Knowledge of interviewing techniques.

Knowledge of computer applications.

Knowledge of federal rules and regulations governing social programs such as Food

Stamp, Medicare, Medical Assistance, etc.

Ability to make basic mathematical computations.

Ability to absorb training in all phases of department programs.

Ability to deal tactfully with people, and maintain effective working relationships with associates.

Ability to understand and implement federal and local requirements regarding social programs.

Ability to recognize and assemble pertinent information gained from interviews.

Ability to prepare written reports and maintain routine records.

Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely.

Ability to operate adding machine and calculator.

FACTOR 2 - SUPERVISOR CONTROL

Work is assigned by Supervisor (caseloads) and is reviewed monthly, unless cases are extremely difficult. 

The employee is allowed considerable latitude in carrying out his/her duties.

FACTOR 3 - GUIDELINES

Manuals for federal and local social programs, departmental rules, regulations and procedures dealing with public assistance programs.

FACTOR 4 - COMPLEXITY

Work is recurring in nature. Caseloads are adjusted based on changing policies and procedures.

FACTOR 5 - SCOPE AND EFFECT

To provide assistance to individuals and families served by social and public assistance

programs and to help identify needs that are related to services the agency can provide.

To ensure all customers seeking assistance receive a response in reference to determination of their eligibility for benefits.

FACTOR 6 - PERSONAL CONTACTS

Co-workers and applicants, employees from government or outside agencies, general public, family members.

FACTOR 7 - PURPOSE OF CONTACTS

To interview customers seeking assistance, and to obtain or provide pertinent information

relative to social programs, and determine eligibility based on federal and local guidelines.

FACTOR 8 - PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is mostly sedentary. Requires some walking, bending, stooping or standing, manual dexterity at times and travel to St. John.

FACTOR 9 - WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in an office setting. May require field visits to applicants home.