Eligibility Specialist II

Core Responsibilities

The position of Eligibility Specialist II determines initial and continued eligibility for public assistance programs. This vacancy is within the Long-Term Care Eligibility Unit and has a strong focus on Maine Care policy. The position may also perform quality control work by reviewing eligibility decisions made by others. Work is done in a fast-paced environment that has high standards for customer service and program accuracy.

The position gathers sensitive and personal information to make timely and accurate eligibility determinations. Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills are necessary as the Eligibility Specialist interacts with people from different walks of life and/or in various emotional states.

• Evaluate information and apply program standards to accurately determine complex eligibility decisions, often for multiple programs at the same time. This includes performing intermediate mathematical calculations.
• Use multiple technology systems to enter, review, and verify eligibility-related data and documentation.
• Clearly explain program rules, requirements, and decisions to applicants and recipients—in writing, over the phone, and in‑person.
• Connect individuals with additional programs and services that may support their health and well‑being.
• Engage in outreach efforts to provide program information, accept applications, and determine eligibility.
• Gather evidence, develop reports, and represent the Department at administrative hearings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential as you’ll work with people from diverse backgrounds, with varying needs, and help them navigate complex systems during moments that matter.

• A four (4) year combination of education, training, and/or progressively responsible experience a social services setting which demonstrates interviewing and data gathering skills as needed to form basis for judgments in eligibility determinations, claims resolutions, and/or customer service requests– OR –
• a Bachelors Degree in Social Services, Business Administration, or other related field

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is dedicated to promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for Maine people. The Department provides health and social services to approximately a third of the State's population, including children, families, older Mainers, and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders. The Department also promotes public health, operates two state psychiatric hospitals, and provides oversight to health care providers.

The Office for Family Independence connects Maine people and families to services and programs that foster health, safety, resilience, and opportunity including Maine Care (Medicaid), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and other education and career programs.

For additional information about this position please contact Marcus Hatch at  or by email ch.

To apply, please upload a resume, cover letter, and transcript (transcript needed only if education is used to meet the minimum qualifications).

Please submit all documents or files in a PDF or Word format.

To request a paper application, please contact Mandy.

Hernandez.

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

• Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave , and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually.…