Eligibility Worker

Bargaining Unit:
Local 1021 - Social Services Rank & File Unit

Contra Costa County is recruiting multiple Eligibility Worker I vacancies in the Employment and Human Services Department (EHSD).

Contra Costa County’s Employment and Human Services Department works diligently to provide the community with resources that support, protect, and empower individuals and families to achieve self‑sufficiency. The department is committed to hiring candidates who share our core values of delivering an exceptional customer service experience, encouraging open communication, embracing change, practicing ethical behavior, and embracing diversity.

With a strong focus on public assistance and self‑sufficiency programs, the EHSD offers essential support to individuals and families throughout Contra Costa County. Eligibility Workers play a key role in helping community members access programs such as Cal Fresh, Medi‑Cal, and CalWORKs — services that promote stability, health, and economic well‑being. Staff in this division are committed to providing respectful, accurate, and timely assistance, often serving as the first point of contact for residents seeking vital resources.

EHSD provides a supportive and team‑oriented environment where employees are encouraged to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact. The department values continuous learning, cultural competence, and a strong work ethic — qualities that help ensure every client interaction is handled with care and professionalism. For those who are passionate about service and looking for a rewarding career path, joining the Eligibility team at EHSD is a chance to be part of an organization that truly makes a difference.

• Committed to providing exceptional customer service
• Organized and task‑oriented, with the ability to meet due dates and timelines
• Able to understand and follow complex oral and written directions
• Able to accurately interpret and apply government regulations, policies, and procedures
• Able to conduct thorough interviews and investigations both in person and over the phone
• Empathetic and skilled in navigating difficult or complex circumstances, including utilizing conflict resolution techniques

• Participating in formal classroom training and on‑the‑job training to develop skills for eligibility determination for public assistance programs (i.e., CalWORKs, Cal Fresh, Medi‑Cal)
• Scheduling and conducting customer interviews via phone or in person to determine new or continuing program eligibility
• Determining initial and ongoing customer eligibility for public assistance programs
• Verifying customer‑provided information and addressing any inconsistencies or discrepancies found
• Handling sensitive personal and financial information with a high level of confidentiality and integrity
• Answering questions and providing information to customers and the general public
• Linking customers to other community resources
• Completing eligibility‑related tasks in compliance with state and federal mandates

• Working for the County gives you a chance to serve your community and contribute to the public good in a meaningful way
• You help individuals and families access essential services like healthcare, food assistance, and housing support, often during their most vulnerable times
• You meet and work with people from all walks of life, which can broaden your perspective and strengthen your interpersonal and communication skills
• You will work in an engaging team environment
• You will have ample opportunities for promotional growth and career mobility

• Meeting the demands of state and federal mandates and timelines
• Adapting to frequent changes in policies and guidelines
• Demonstrating the ability to assess eligibility effectively during training and on the job
• Working in a fast‑paced environment
• Assisting frustrated or upset customers

The eligible list established from this recruitment may remain in effect for six (6) months.

Education: Possession of a high school diploma, GED equivalency or a high school proficiency certificate.

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