Posting number: 201905321
Department: |Department of Human Services- STT|
Job classification: Eligibility Specialist I
Posting type: Open
Categories: Human Services
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.
The Government of the Virgin Islands Division of Personnel is proud to be at the forefront of progressive public sector Human Resources Management.
Our goal is to address the Government of the Virgin Islands’ business needs with strategic and innovative solutions. We partner with departments and agencies to establish a workforce of excellence who are well-qualified, trained and highly motivated to serve the citizens and visitors of the United States Virgin Islands.
