Eligibility Specialist Robstown

Benefits

• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Training & development

This position requires providing great customer/client intake services for qualified low‑income clients seeking utility payments and related assistance at one of two community outreach Service Centers serving Nueces County. ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Interviews applicants or recipients to determine eligibility for public assistance; interprets and explains rules and regulations governing eligibility, methods of payment, and legal rights to applicant or recipient. Records and evaluates personal and financial data obtained from applicant or recipient to determine initial or continuing eligibility, according to departmental directives and State and Federal guidelines. Initiates procedures and referrals to grant, modify, deny, or eligibility for various programs, such as utility assistance, minor home improvements, air conditioning/heating replacements or repairs, training/tuition assistance, and employment.

Authorizes amount of payments (pledges) based on determination of eligibility for programs. Identifies need for social services, and makes outside referrals to various agencies and community resources available. Prepares regular payment and special reports as required. Prepares and keeps records of assigned cases consistent with departmental, State and Federal requirements. Meets with clients to assist them in completing forms and applications for assistance, determines client eligibility, and makes referrals for related or outside services.

Assists clients in interpreting/understanding forms, policies, regulations, and other items for assistance through other social service agencies. Records and evaluates personal and financial data to determine initial or continuing eligibility. Complies with all State, Federal and Agency mandated requirements related to all aspects of application intake, and provides clients with written information related to utility pledges and other benefits, including referrals.

Processes pledges to participating utility companies for client payments, including household crisis requests. Responds promptly to clients’ inquiries—via email, text, telephone call or office visits—related to their status, payments, and related information. Collects data for various surveys and reporting purposes as assigned. Conducts follow up of pending documentation and required information needed. Maintains client files consistent with State, Federal, and Agency requirements—including maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive applicant information.

Assists with outreach intake efforts in personal homes, apartments, and other public places. Achieves intake client production goals to satisfy State and Federal requirements. Assist with infrequent rearranging of file and supply cabinets, and keep working areas organized and safe. Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma or GED, and
• One year of experience in client intake activities, preferably in the area of social services.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Demonstrates ability to read and write, keeps accurate records, follows oral and written instructions, and files alphabetically and numerically.
• Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing and database systems, filing and records management systems (Office Excel and Word).
• The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
• Accepts responsibility for the direction, control, and planning of intake activities.
• Must be able to manage multiple tasks successfully, including coping with the appropriate pressure; this means staying calm and empathizing with clients.
• Must have strong interpersonal skills—paying attention to what clients are saying, understanding the points being made, and asking appropriate questions without interrupting the client.
• Must be attentive to detail, thorough, and possess a strong work ethic.
• Must be organized, self‑motivated, make sound decisions and able to work with minimum supervision, and dependable.
• Must be able to read, interpret, and apply Agency and State regulations and requirements, including…